tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41176224354472977882024-03-19T00:20:52.890-07:00 FPE Automation, Inc. Get the latest product releases and other news from FPE Automation <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com">here</a>!Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.comBlogger472125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-9127195721633423412024-01-10T13:31:00.000-08:002024-01-10T13:31:56.916-08:00How do you know if you're using the right automation partner? <h1 style="text-align: left;">Choosing the Right Automation Partner</h1><div>A very candid look at knowing what's behind the promises you hear. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7qpLbOUI4MJswDML3nPzVHG4ySj3wk7x3EVkqc3Vv2TR3EN-PE0jQnw8qG-IETfEtSMYhqDX45ifHVgvoavnACW4QAO5wD3_AE_CefGwZE2Z25dYD3cgIDXx_oEgqWfugTIPe_MIpMwHehK6NkFt_50bBLXJ948R7vPFrZl30Srn_8WOhTPt61U5oCGg/s360/29715.jpg" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="360" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7qpLbOUI4MJswDML3nPzVHG4ySj3wk7x3EVkqc3Vv2TR3EN-PE0jQnw8qG-IETfEtSMYhqDX45ifHVgvoavnACW4QAO5wD3_AE_CefGwZE2Z25dYD3cgIDXx_oEgqWfugTIPe_MIpMwHehK6NkFt_50bBLXJ948R7vPFrZl30Srn_8WOhTPt61U5oCGg/s320/29715.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><div>Distributors, resellers, independent product representatives, solution providers, integrators, oh my. If you're a part of the plant engineering or maintenance ecosystem in any way, if your job role even loosely resembles process controls, your inbox, voice mailbox and phone are probably full of messages. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">People want to work with you. </h2><div>Let's start with the obvious. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you are approached by someone who is unprofessional, unethical, can't or won't keep their promises, or outright lies to you, don't walk. Run. </div><div><br /></div><div>I would like to make one thing very clear. We are not talking about that group. You know better than to work with a partner like that. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, who is left? The simple answer? A very long list of professional, personable, knowledgeable folks - all of whom would like some of your precious bandwidth. We're talking about those persistent souls who probably have left you a message in the 30 seconds or so since you began reading this! People certainly do want to work with you. </div><div><br /></div><div>Things look very different through your lens. I'm guessing you don't have a ton of time. When you agree to meet with prospective automation partners, it seems like they all say the same thing anyway. How do you get past the sales pitch? How do you determine who will serve you the best, hopefully on a long-term basis? </div><div><br /></div><div>To say that "there is a lot at stake" is an understatement. The right partner can help you to manufacture smarter. They can help you make better decisions that greatly impact your facility. Maybe even your job. </div><div><br /></div><div>Any journey begins with a first step. When selecting an automation partner, that first step is often the most important one. Here's an honest exploration of a proven process you can use to ensure success. </div><div><br /></div><div>Let's dive in. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Your path towards successful collaboration.</h3><div>Here are some questions you can ask to find out if an automation partner is a good fit. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. What are your/your company's accolades? </b></div><div><br /></div><div>This single question will save you a lot of time. Has the company been featured in any success stories or case studies? Have they won any awards? Received any recognition? </div><div><br /></div><div>If the answer is "no", beware. If a partner is truly creating value in manufacturing plants like yours, it won't be long before the compliments start coming in. </div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>2. How long has the company you work for been in business? And how long have you been there? </b></div><div><br /></div><div>Don't get me wrong, truly talented industry champions do change jobs. There is nothing wrong with accepting a better offer. Still, you're looking for numbers that will make you feel comfortable in this area. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>3. Who is on your support team? </b></div><div><br /></div><div>This is a heavy-hitter question. Why? Many, if not most, partners rely solely on their suppliers for application assistance. That can be a big mistake. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>There are many reasons why that is true:</div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>You're the middleman:</b> There is not enough transparency, and you may not be involved enough in the process, particularly when there is an issue. </li><li><b>Not seeing the big picture: </b>While the supplier's employees are undoubtedly the best source for information about the product they manufacture, they often lack knowledge about the market as a whole.</li></ul></div><div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>While the supplier's employees are undoubtedly experts when it comes to their product, they often lack knowledge about the market as a whole. They will most likely promote their own brand instead of recommending what is best for your application. Plus, they won't have as much in-depth knowledge about how to incorporate various components into your application. FPE Automation has an award-winning, in-house, team of engineers to assist you. When we make recommendations, you can be confident that have your best interest in mind. Your success is our success.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-79135196807502722742023-09-21T09:13:00.150-07:002024-01-10T13:27:52.996-08:00We asked people on the front lines of manufacturing about the latest trends: here's what they said - part 3<div><h2><span style="font-size: x-large;">Industry Insiders Identify Industrial Engineering Trends</span></h2><div>By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">You Asked: We Answered - Part 3</span></h3><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for staying tuned to our You Asked: We Answered series of blog posts. This week, we have a whole new group of industry insiders weighing in on what they see as the latest trends in industrial automation. Let's dive in!</div><div><br /></div><br /><h2><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQb7UqrguZ6y34h4aj1OKHaroVHngi3Ss8njR2fpX-A_C9ThtKVATqqxOT_V7bt0wAnXIEtMGVF4LIQaRcsy8g-BHKwVniz-yt68OFSGlCU9dbBTB5vEzh2Q1i3iHZW2f3Rl8hXf6CF73Ji6CraowUC74sxadq1kP3RpuCH2u9wQlVccb7mtp4lakpYKU/s318/stacey-stowell.jp" /></h2></div><h2>Stacey Stowell<br />QC Conveyors</h2><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">One
of the most impressive trends in automation is the innovation the automation
industry continues to show in responding to labor shortages. </p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p class="MsoNormal">From
repetitive assembly tasks to packaging and palletizing, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/qc-conveyors/" target="_blank">QC Conveyors</a> has been a
leading performer in creative labor shortage solutions. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Stacey Stowell is in the impressive position of having risen through the ranks at </i><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/qc-conveyors/" target="_blank"><i>QC Conveyors</i></a><i> over the past 20 years to become Director of Channel Sales. That journey has given her a front-row seat as automation has evolved over the past two decades. Stacey has worked with some of the best and most innovative partners in the industry, giving her an excellent perspective on industry trends like these. <br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /></i></p><div>
<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJMWqTCo35h0n-MIbGYkMhd1ntwbsf9TOkMFq9HjfSqR083gt40t-WeLoI5N6fPNNqjeK0KqD2a8QJLzKuLqyloylEVliZsuXJhES6NMCznx-8QWFDyqGAcpO9OiOSZ4Fa8ag7WbpyQAeJEoOS4XQDDqDZQaVarhWPZUqrU2gFk48xDYdocHzwdAZJe4/s4964/Leena-Antony.png" /><br /><h2>Leena Antony<br />FPE Automation</h2>A trend I have seen is an increased interest in product traceability. It is now easier than ever for customers to have a complete record of their product through every step of the manufacturing process. Zebra’s industrial scanners, RFID technology, and industrial barcode readers have given our customers the flexibility to upgrade their current processes with little to no downtime.<br /><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Leena Antony is an applications engineer for <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>. It's a role that regularly puts her on the cutting edge of automation as she helps companies engineer next-level robotic and vision systems. Leena is also a certified Universal Robots CORE training instructor and has a </i><i>Master's degree in industrial technology and operations from the </i><i>Illinois Institute of Technology.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsLXcq8NM9023ieXRKGu3SuDM6RIunHgWD0EWwQ1xyZaB4s1oy-acVQGKuz8AR2MkvkPB-WAA6c3JoFOUgHfvcRAjXRzI59iN7rLWCa-OBxGld4Ql7BCAv3stLBRbt-JuAgbbepix9_uaYY2zkpGw-P49K-4om93FXWOIhayeEd9HLqwZxJOT_kEpMfY/s800/nick-hobbs.png" /></i></p></div><p></p><h2>Nick Hobbs<br />Apera AI</h2><p class="MsoNormal">The big thing <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/apera" target="_blank">Apera AI</a> is seeing right now is making existing robotic cells or manual processes better with AI-powered vision. Major automotive manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers we’re working with have achieved significant productivity gains and ROI. This extends to replacing older vision cameras with processes trained using AI. Manufacturers love these automation projects because production is being interrupted by robot faults or labor shortages, and they don’t have to think about it anymore.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i>Nick Hobbs has 13+ years of experience in automation sales and leads sales activities for </i><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/apera" target="_blank"><i>Apera AI</i></a><i>. Before joining </i><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/apera" target="_blank"><i>Apera</i></a><i>, he started the Indiana branch of a major systems integrator and grew the territory to be the largest in the company. Nick has a world-class collection of Air Jordan sneakers and is the winner of the </i><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/apera" target="_blank"><i>Apera</i></a> <i>golf long drive competition.</i></p><br /><div><br /></div><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZ7GDXBLVBQSIqaR4dEgITB48UFCdP8nNM0LKnsk-jG0OxJPRdcdZv7UlRUL-I1zNig_uwvPGbSP3pbJbmOt9I8kDXHjT9oKV9uhrZZayFrjsjqrhYOW6OorTviETpdkYs2lwpoubyrvObnwsexU-BoZTM45E_bY1tw3Jf3-F2MtJfaVAxGVG2OQQ1Q4/s705/andy-zaske.png" width="200" /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Andy Zaske<br />Tolomatic</h2><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Manufacturing will continue to require increasing levels of accuracy, repeatability, control and be environmentally friendly. This will increase the use of electric actuators to replace hydraulic and other fluid power actuators in many aspects of manufacturing. Further accelerating an already growing trend. At Tolomatic, we are also seeing an increasing interest in multi-axis actuator solutions that can be used in applications that require longer reaches or lifting larger loads or faster precision than more typical robots can. This will prove increasingly useful as automation of manufacturing continues to grow and evolve in North America.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Andy Zaske is a seasoned automation professional on the front lines of all things automation. He's not your typical engineer. Friendly, outgoing, knowledgeable and creative, having Andy on your team instantly elevates any project. He is Vice President of Sales and Marketing at <a href="http://fpeautomation.com/tolomatic" target="_blank">Tolomatic, Inc</a>. </i></p><div><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal"><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS8YBG575ciOU3HNp6WESPVLq-EWoVaXmFDD60T6R9Lm1KCRPQ-lpZpl007mwI9ExhbrdLIB1saIQjpLmf8eZDimGFgWBJAeTuMwNVA_6I14Ih9qqc-p_ut2B0gmCX1GL4A0wD-BCCxYDaNNFhrzqn_6x6xYatDl26WivS1mwz2gqiGGbpEtKpXcLqZoo/s200/michele-leoni.jpg" width="200" /></p><h2>Michele Leoni<br />Datalogic Automation srl</h2><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Machines are becoming more flexible and able to handle a wider variety of products. As a result, machine builders are looking for devices that can handle multiple scenarios and are easy and intuitive to configure. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/datalogic/" target="_blank">Datasensing</a> offers superior, easy-to-use products such as the brand new SH4 Series, the world's first Safety Light Curtains that can be programmed wirelessly with an APP</p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Michele Leoni sends his thoughts from Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. His perspective, combined with the experience he has gathered as Product Marketing Manager (PMM) at </i><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/datalogic/" target="_blank">Datalogic</a>, <i>provides us in the midwestern USA with a global view of automation trends.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /></i></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Read what others had to say.</h2><div>This is part of the "You Asked: We Answered" series of blog posts, brought to you by <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>. If you missed the others, you can view part one <a href="http://fpeautomation.blogspot.com/2023/09/we-asked-people-on-front-lines-of.html" target="_blank">here</a>, and part two <a href="http://fpeautomation.blogspot.com/2023/09/automation-trends-part-2.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Do you work in industrial automation?</b> If so, you probably have your own ideas about where smart manufacturing is headed. Would you like to contribute next time? If so, feel free to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandia-harrison/" target="_blank">reach out to me</a> @sandiaharrison with your brief, two or three-sentence statement and a lighthearted bio like the ones you see here. I'd enjoy hearing what you have to say! </i></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-72798802601650814902023-09-21T09:13:00.008-07:002024-01-10T13:28:00.131-08:00We asked people on the front lines of manufacturing about the latest trends: here's what they said - part 2<div><h2><span style="font-size: x-large;">Industry Insiders Identify Industrial Engineering Trends</span></h2><div>By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">You Asked: We Answered - Part 2</span></h3><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to everyone for your overwhelmingly positive feedback after <a href="http://fpeautomation.blogspot.com/2023/09/we-asked-people-on-front-lines-of.html" target="_blank">part 1</a> of the "You Asked: We Answered" blog series appeared in your social media feeds last week. To recap, it seemed to be ideal timing to ask several individuals at the front lines of automation what they believe to be the biggest emerging trends in manufacturing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's what they had to say this time around: </div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /><br /></div><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4ks-AS5sAEuRXG8n22UXMSF9-bc3bBeZgJ6vcsm8ypUQnILn48olWmzqkwnUI8RsedEoiwVxBWtxR2wPAbI5KB_n8PfkGmhuepjnVLNW_lQEM1qi2Qxu_nILSTRPiVdgsDTVM0gp__p0pKSaSq11hkO4053r95RXjFA4PdhDN43V_yX7vbVp_pu8W6A/s360/zach-thoma.jpg" width="200" /><h2>Zachary Thoma<br />Kawasaki Robotics</h2><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">I would say it's all about non-proprietary connectivity right now. People don't want to be handcuffed by an OEM's restrictions or recurring licensing fees, they want something akin to the open architecture programming environment that <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki Robotics</a> offers.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Zach Thoma has been improving manufacturing processes and procedures all over the globe for twenty years. He enjoys </i><i>fitting companies large and small with the right solution and making their processes better. Zach is the creator of the popular podcast series <a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2062721" target="_blank">Bot Sh!t Crazy</a>. He is also a strong advocate for mental fitness in the workplace. He is based in Cedar Falls, Iowa, and is Midwest Regional Sales Manager for <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki Robotics USA, Inc</a>.</i></p><i><br /></i><p></p><div><p class="MsoNormal"><i><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEKrYHtiYfD1EZJo2NvMWEL08rVhTmxFNRVA7JBRTGjWmONgRyKFwNSrXtj-9zuw6eiTNOUsNQ36oUIX6SE129xlq-98EtX_Nj8yBwfQbx4XnZdcUGWUijZXTznMqqNfkkJtSnr2ga4M978Xty0rVZAGoVbyj4OWtjixQ1IpVjuPrpIjC7hhJnu6MH_L4/s500/kendra-patton.png" /></i></p></div><p></p><h2>Kendra Patton<br />Robotiq</h2><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;">Manufacturers are feeling pressure to maintain production while balancing retention rates for employees. We see our customers looking for simple and user-friendly technology that can be implemented quickly without disrupting the current production. Focusing on simplicity for projects, the <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/robotiq/" target="_blank">Robotiq</a> Palletizing Solution continues to be a great fit for these initiatives within various factories. We see implementations that are easily repeated on additional lines within customer facilities which allows standardization throughout the facility.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i>When the sweeping movement toward collaborative robots (cobots) arrived with unprecedented influential force over the industrial automation industry, Kendra was there. Since then, she has worked with manufacturers on numerous, varied projects to eliminate specific pain points. Using cobots for over half of her career, she understands the market fit and technical needs for applications. As the Palletizing Expert at <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/robotiq/" target="_blank">Robotiq</a>, she focuses on end-of-line deployments using their palletizing solution featuring <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/universal-robots" target="_blank">Universal Robots</a>.</i></p></div><div><br /></div><h2><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZpnMB4ZM9ntmAJq7LK9cNA02jti-PUNWXL5PLSWy8yTAbnqv2UoHeCpqwEvLdiIsV0YvBcW0FfSjFWiflCwWdcUtkGp0M35KZeNQVpbvRMv56sb2_NDQP6-uK2lwHp5hI3U5ElKqeB9HkrgktJ27CK6zixBQZ6V197kmqTYCItCzHjQ5EY_fVm6NMeY/s564/wes%20doty.jpg" /></h2></div><h2>Wes Doty<br />Mech-Mind</h2><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">We are seeing the continued prioritization of employee retention, and the “up-skilling” of current employees in an effort to retain top talent. We at <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mech-mind-robotics/" target="_blank">Mech-Mind Robotics</a> have robust camera hardware, as well as a software suite that is intuitive enough for someone early in their technical career to grasp quickly to make an impact and featureful enough to keep a technical veteran engaged in their personal development, quicker deployment of machines and
overall reductions in hardware costs. It’s truly a win-win for all.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Wesley Doty is best described as a motivational sales strategist, growth driver, player-coach and team builder. He is an </i><i>experienced national sales leader with a demonstrated history of success in the industrial automation industry. He has a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) focused in Sales, Distribution, and Marketing Operations, General from Purdue University.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><br /><h2><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdEi4kWQ0oUHiOWV6R7zTVtXpkD7Z6mlj8DqvMTwsFL2E43PltiJSoQ3rPvl9pQ_kATponhcooZtBcq7_uHdkkBNUwMrvfL3ODhd2Z-rF5B1nWCFNvTPm4DFEvl2rr5yuzN3__imiazEhZCB8MruI6wJYtwJl5nT8NhSt64HQ3D4NMTBMUqCWQGyG3lhA/s800/jomy-vadakumpadam.png" /></h2><h2>Jomy Vadakumpadam<br />FPE Automation</h2><p class="MsoNormal">I am seeing that our customers are looking to partner more
with solution providers rather than purchase their automation products from
re-sellers. They want to work with someone who can provide value more than just
handling the transaction. For example, a robot purchase from Vendor A, PLC
purchase from Vendor B, and a Vision solution from Vendor C can lead to a very
complicated and potentially frustrating timeline to get these three
technologies working together. At <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, we pride ourselves on being
experts in all of these areas of technology. When you work with FPE, you can
have the confidence that the Panasonic PLC we sold alongside to work with that
<a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/universal-robots" target="_blank">Universal Robot</a> and <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra/" target="_blank">Zebra</a> camera will work together and get set up with minimal
startup/development time. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>20 years ago, fresh out of the Illinois Institute of Technology, Jomy Vadakumpadam helped launch the first Automation Controls Division team at <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>. He nurtured the ACD from its origins to the large, talented team of engineers it is today, all the while working with customers large and small to help them automate. For that reason, it's hard to describe the nuances of his considerable experience in the field, or the level of industry respect for his knowledge. Jomy's role is Vice President of Sales & Engineering.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /></i></p>
<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFZJevdSO3HLm4YuhKWlPGZfTEguCkMvajiANcA4cExHUN681f-SdLTcA_41D5G8s34DZrDi45anhCRe1LZ21p-HxeSazfCzQL8vHipc7LWBJU-Qf6V0Mbas7m83NAaSwNUWwv9K6zyAiL7NjM4WSJKf1GFTNz71vrebxT-CAwF7xsDyYcsn2us38MF8/s800/paul-powers.jpg" /><br /><h2>Paul Powers<br />Zebra Technologies</h2>Manufacturers are finding that they cannot ignore automation on the factory floor. For some, what was once an industry term referenced at a conference, is now part of short-term initiatives. With AI-based technology on the forefront of automating processes, we must challenge ourselves to the openness of evolving industrial progressions.<br /><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Paul Powers is Senior Channel Account Manager - Machine Vision & Imaging at <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra Technologies</a>. When first partnered with </i><i><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a></i><i>, Paul's extensive background in automation instantly made him an invaluable asset to our applications engineering team. With a natural talent for problem-solving and a great personality, it's always a pleasure to work with Paul on any vision or imaging project.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Additional Thoughts</h2><div>I'll continue to reach out to others for their industry trend observations. Stay tuned for round three! </div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Do you work in industrial automation?</b> If so, you probably have your own ideas about where smart manufacturing is headed. Would you like to contribute next time? If so, feel free to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandia-harrison/" target="_blank">reach out to me</a>, </i><i>@sandiaharrison, with</i><i> your brief, two or three-sentence statement and a lighthearted bio like the ones you see here. I'd enjoy hearing what you have to say! </i></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-75550721765749085782023-09-15T10:56:00.008-07:002024-01-10T13:28:07.280-08:00We asked people on the front lines of manufacturing about the latest trends: here's what they said<div><h2><span style="font-size: x-large;">Industry Insiders Identify Industrial Engineering Trends</span></h2><div>By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">You Asked: We Answered</span></h3><div><br /></div><div>As we approach a packed trade show season, it seemed to be ideal timing to ask several individuals at the front lines of automation what they believe to be the biggest emerging trends in manufacturing. Here are their thoughts. <br /><br /></div><h2><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yTKycdzvjTRv480QsIb-Oqog1jogcMSLkyqFZoI1PvlA8gUmVDy25twwdguLGMCJjx1592McTCc7_YQbQFSDQsb3h6pjlkRU-UWRpDWzkwwYDKBRnwJ8EmemgxDJqPqGAgSlnwM2-mVEbIj6ZKqADET_6hODsvLQSoib10lni3C0UyHiLNBuUsHubio/s320/barrett-white.png" /></h2></div><h2>Barrett White<br />Murrelektronik, Inc.</h2><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Machine builders are relying on IO-Link more than ever
before. At <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/murr-elektronik/" target="_blank">Murrelektronik</a>, we pride ourselves in conveying the power of
this technology to our customers. Not only are our customers gaining more
data at the device level, but they are also starting to realize the cost
savings from reduced/simplified wiring, quicker deployment of machines and
overall reductions in hardware costs. It’s truly a win-win for all.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Barrett White is a regional sales manager for Murrelektronik in the states of Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. In his role at </i><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/murr-elektronik/" target="_blank"><i>Murrelektronik</i></a><i>, he focuses on strengthening the connection between the control cabinet and the sensors and actuators in both machines and systems with proven concepts and technologies.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div>
<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ5OWDKFPgZKS7ro5cVK5Y9pUAnA866wxkGnKUFAblUh_Hf6pGfwyf8NJ3lYeyXRUFEfHHaNbRt0h04oTDWP9oZ_f9iXz_Q5TkoqtZUBEXQMh_-d_giXFUo9tpvebbzwy02t_C6c-95LKiCyHuycINOMFUJqtE5qnrjAd2phYg1yEPoWMtJvoXIz6LivE/s320/dan-kelly-edit-600.png" /><br /><h2>Daniel Kelly<br />Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR)</h2><p class="MsoNormal">There is a new trend that was actually an old trend that
didn’t really catch on before COVID. That is Robots as a Service
(RaaS). Manufacturers are still dealing with workforce shortages. And economic conditions are putting an even tighter grip on their
wallets. RaaS has never been more appealing. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mir" target="_blank">MiR </a>offers a RaaS
option for our customers through our financing partner to ease that initial
financial hit to their capital budgets.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Dan Kelly had been working in automation for some time. Along the way, he says, it "sparked a new passion in me for robotics and sent me down an exciting path in this industry. I can't wait for all the new adventures headed my way." Dan is a midwestern-based Area Sales Manager for <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mir" target="_blank">Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR)</a>.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgch3RCQ_8DErlegF898y1Xd4Uik2h2Y7SxARMcEthO2yjZz5hJJvWdBQAahRXAb4Dszlve0Jl2SzEjW9ds0Bmm0Y4tWedTVNIASQclHBP59HMGkDKBmKq0jTX8G0LdnlLBa24yb9vuYP3gzkmQ6NhlCi_5Mn59MFrigrqDnWoWA4bRPcGYhTUXOpQ9oMg/s320/brittany-carroll.png" /></i></p></div><p></p><h2>Brittany Carroll<br />IRIS Factory Automation</h2><p class="MsoNormal">A
trend we have seen with our Manufacturing customers is that this new generation
is moving away from labor-intensive roles. </p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><a href="https://www.irisfactoryautomation.com/" target="_blank">IRIS Factory Automation</a> has developed Automation solutions
to combat repetitive high-labor jobs. In this, we have designed an appealing and
easy-to-use interface and system to attract and retain employees with a more
fulfilling role.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i>Brittany Carroll has dedicated her career to creating long-lasting relationships with partners and clients. She is a content creator and the host of the Automation Happy Hour Podcast. Brittany is a Channel Partner Manager at <a href="https://www.irisfactoryautomation.com/" target="_blank">IRIS Factory Automation</a>. </i></p><div><br /><br /></div><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="2064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaMZSn1AaqRMrT_GuVKglkL9JP6Gu37dEuG5myO4y5sgMCEi56YeeVTgMaqwem_vEyLDE-MeMGLzDapDDjl-9GswUfmCH11qBUpVWeh_Z6Jf0aAOJfF4eW-NVLvC8Ste_WryE7-NjtYp6QC7VrPGchNxl4YOLrp0sz50FOmfq1IRRmRMVR9DvVpQF1lv4/w200-h200/scott-phd-dom.png" width="200" /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Scott Massie<br />FPE Automation</h2><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Two of the biggest trends I see in manufacturing are I/O Link
and electric actuators. I see engineering teams moving away from older solutions toward both of these, and getting far better performance across the board. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves" target="_blank">Mac Valves</a> has recently released their MIO-Link
product, which takes a stack of valves and communicates on the I/O Link
network….saving wiring time and troubleshooting time.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc" target="_blank">PHD Inc.</a> has a broad
line of long life electric actuators that have solved a large number of
difficult applications in the marketplace for us. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Scott Massie is an experienced regional application expert with highly specialized product training in several key areas. Although he wears many hats, his official title is Sales Manager, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>. </i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWGwmh9HpH0PY76HYaGE50euqSYgUsFGsr4P3SInqi8wg5nP9u-cgDoa8FhScxwz864niJvu8-falT3Zwonr2C1rtwj2YLPS9uiRO4cs2LQLim8myOk21-TJuYXZM-FkSxPA6b3nFR8vDHdnwwXjFGu0xQK0UL9uylANGR2r23jMaaxnTHQvc_ECjy60/s333/mike-walchli.png" /></p><h2>Michael Walchli<br />Universal Robots</h2><div>Due to the shortage of welders in the industry, collaborative robots are rapidly growing into the welding space. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/universal-robots" target="_blank">Universal Robots</a> have taken their knowledge and utilized their partner network to fill the void with collaborative automated welding solutions.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Michael Walchlii has developed an established career in the mechanical and industrial engineering industry. He is a Channel Development Manager in the midwestern USA for <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/universal-robots" target="_blank">Universal Robots</a>. Prior to that, he served as an infantryman in the US Army,</i></div><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /></i></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Additional Thoughts</h2><div>I'll continue to reach out to others for their industry trend observations. Stay tuned for round two! </div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Do you work in industrial automation?</b> If so, you probably have your own ideas about where smart manufacturing is headed. Would you like to contribute next time? If so, feel free to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandia-harrison/" target="_blank">reach out to me</a>, </i><i>@sandiaharrison, </i><i>with your brief, two or three-sentence statement and a lighthearted bio like the ones you see here. I'd enjoy hearing what you have to say! </i></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-6688035998562736662023-09-07T12:45:00.004-07:002024-01-10T13:28:17.575-08:00"It once had a bad name." Mining cleans up its act... is now at the forefront of environmentally-friendly production<h1 style="text-align: left;">Across the Country, Limestone Processing Plants Are Reducing Their Carbon Footprint with MAC Pulse Valves</h1><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="2400" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHnOPNuu-FPzumMIEm5TCvQiqK3J0SNLX4ooguIvLegIzgpMU3J07VmrP2edAlSpCssiAShjpdTPqim39xORN5dkYvG1-74c7eMUcaHn7N3ZXu5UIOsPE__AqHIwpZEuWYq_RISEvDp-9Qc9rvvkidr0CPt4k9EKCgouLxuHlOxtQ_YsYKU6UJd7bges/s320/mississippi.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Mississippi River<br />Source: Mississippi Lime</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><br /><p>In a concerted effort to combat climate change, limestone processing plants across the country are taking significant steps to reduce their carbon footprint. One innovative solution gaining traction in the industry is the installation of <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves" target="_blank">MAC Pulse Valves</a>. These valves are revolutionizing the way dust collection systems operate within these facilities, leading to substantial energy savings.</p><p>Limestone processing used to be notorious for its environmental impact, primarily due to the energy-intensive nature of lime production. However, with the introduction of <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves" target="_blank">MAC Pulse Valves</a>, the industry is undergoing a transformation. These valves efficiently control the dust collector systems, vastly reducing the time they operate. By doing so, they not only enhance the overall efficiency of the process but also significantly cut down on energy consumption. All while keeping the air the workers breathe clean. </p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ71AL38VznOIvgnoUAdFplw5lyxmQRID6VlJKyvzgxbuZUEkGuzWj8UChp5a2aFo3sfUFrQ6aQLMDAf6wPYQgaygYQSAPjCl6mZCwZbHGi5O8HUuhzzNngiPriWi7BpAmBOjuXgyL4IkhwjPzJawW0DPGEAE3Oum3wfqgUibPgMroeBkeQLnUeOppas8/s320/lime-processing.png" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Clean production due to a more efficient <br />dust collection system.</span> </td></tr></tbody></table><p>Across the board, virtually all limestone processing plants in the United States have made a commitment to sustainability. </p><p>The adoption of <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves" target="_blank">MAC Pulse Valves</a> is a testament to the industry's dedication to environmental stewardship. As limestone processing plants across the nation embrace this technology, they are not only improving their environmental footprint but also setting an example for other industry sectors. With such innovations, the future of limestone processing looks greener, aligning with the broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and safeguarding our planet's health. </p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixNAj6nM47fYg5gaUgmTB5g6aSGeLbsAnNcECoVxOgW2y44v_ry1aMG01o6146SO5lmurvq_i4iEInydbt5W5vDgfOlyqa2KEg1ig0K9kEfIO2zgk-cUxojM4k52n3wl_Uzp-Bclkxkx07Ba2bXXup9OoYoRSRwBfzVFtTV7-jcQ3FMluIogxTSVXRHDo/s320/IMG_3339.HEIC" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">At FPE Automation: assembling, inspecting and testing<br />the more efficient valves prior to installation.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="text-align: left;">Retrofitting a Dust Collector: What's Involved?</h2><div><div>Retrofitting a dust collector involves several key steps, starting with an assessment of the existing collector's performance and condition. Inefficient valves stick, break down frequently and run continously, wasting energy without properly cleaning the air. Corrosion is a common issue. The valves pictured here have anti-corrosion nickel plating that was developed specifically for the harsh environment in lime plants. </div><div><br /></div><div>Fortunately, tools are available to measure and compare one solution over the other, and to properly size your application. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> has in-house specialists who are highly skilled in assessing dust collection systems They can collect and present factual data from your environment that can help you to make the correct determination. Once the evaluation is complete, the goal is to enhance the dust collector's performance, reduce energy consumption, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations, making it an essential undertaking for industries reliant on effective dust management systems. Many of the nation's largest limestone miners have reached that goal by adopting <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves" target="_blank">MAC Pulse Valves</a> technology as part of their clean air initiatives. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Do you work in industrial automation?</b> If so, you probably have your own ideas about where smart manufacturing is headed. Would you like to contribute next time? If so, feel free to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandia-harrison/" target="_blank">reach out to the author of this post</a>, </i><i>@sandiaharrison, </i><i>I'd enjoy hearing what you have to say! </i></div>
Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-91647469552481567082023-08-29T11:52:00.001-07:002024-01-10T13:31:28.773-08:00Getting a grip: the role of robotics in car tire manufacturing<h1 style="text-align: left;">On the Road Again: Robotic Gripper Application at a Major Car Tire Manufacturing Plant</h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzzc2ZXTbmDg68f5QiacnlkLXvMzwzqK2MV3TAMagHlc_l5M4cYwV-pXEQW2meLkBdDwXsjXKRalA-ucmAwpQZtDFuND344q3nNYqq5uvS7XEOiPuVGka8kMv-KtwXw6DoTYFLsQOgjt1aPLRL7p8DWR6DIURERqds0I-5P_4bR7KlXbgugjMmog-IWQ8/s5193/robotics%20in%20car%20tire%20manufacturing.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3466" data-original-width="5193" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzzc2ZXTbmDg68f5QiacnlkLXvMzwzqK2MV3TAMagHlc_l5M4cYwV-pXEQW2meLkBdDwXsjXKRalA-ucmAwpQZtDFuND344q3nNYqq5uvS7XEOiPuVGka8kMv-KtwXw6DoTYFLsQOgjt1aPLRL7p8DWR6DIURERqds0I-5P_4bR7KlXbgugjMmog-IWQ8/s320/robotics%20in%20car%20tire%20manufacturing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span >FPE Automation's Andy Button receives recognition for the implementation of custom robotic grippers in the manufacturing plant of a global tire manufacturer. </span></h4><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Car tires. Where the proverbial "wheels hit the road." It's where every journey starts. Or is it? Most of us have never given any thought about the journey every tire makes before it ends up on our car. It turns out that AI-driven robots are revolutionizing the automotive industry, particularly in the domain of car tires, resulting in substantial efficiency gains.</div></div><br /><div>I reached out to Travis Haynes, Senior Application Engineer at <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc" target="_blank">PHD Inc.</a> "The customer wanted a three-jaw gripper, as the concept they’ve used before involved a cylinder driving three pivoting arms to retain the tire," he told me. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>The goal:</b> To pick and place tires of various sizes by their internal diameter. </div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td><img border="0" data-original-height="6110" data-original-width="9699" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbeJ3OeWW4ceWk7MgoDGTI9JqS5DuH5DBQhd9XtmDuHKASZY-MdTsajTEQTuutU5s5m_yz2uePiEjT7UZpeL1POlV712qY1nT-wDN4iS6ikd4utMdHtKijEK9zZKTr8MV6_ZC5z9Jj6DU1oI2sfeMJf03Jywt9JZPvX2sL0y3hHDqtAVj0_u1WTdvjGI/s320/tire-gripper.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 1em;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Simulation only: actual drawing not used to<br />maintain confidentiality.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><b>The application:</b> A robotic cell that can detect the tire size from the ID on the tire using machine vision, and automatically grip and lift it. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>The challenge:</b> The difference in tire sizes called for significantly more travel than a standard three-jaw gripper has available. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, Hayes, together with Andy Button, Regional Sales Team Leader at <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, and with the help of a local integrator, looked at custom solutions. </div><div><br /></div><div>"This gripper is the result of adding backing plates to a previous custom design to increase jaw moment capacities." Hayes described. "It is effectively a customized, three-jaw version of <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc" target="_blank">PHD's</a> popular GRR gripper." </div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK5zop1Gol_CfRVC6AvGkRfY8FWnudodY-9Tl3VsNDsZkVpyr-ssSwupLe-dIrsxy8HCjGXr0cj5RZh3Obe1Tq-AVcvgNwwd_pZVo947d1q2OYZtz6c7hJpER9fff18JNmfdpncbkDPGgVYlwXTTLzteLaKEKlBr8zrtZd1wW5rmKzgSyre_tysspgGWg/s1551/andy-button-sandia-harrison.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1551" data-original-width="1336" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK5zop1Gol_CfRVC6AvGkRfY8FWnudodY-9Tl3VsNDsZkVpyr-ssSwupLe-dIrsxy8HCjGXr0cj5RZh3Obe1Tq-AVcvgNwwd_pZVo947d1q2OYZtz6c7hJpER9fff18JNmfdpncbkDPGgVYlwXTTLzteLaKEKlBr8zrtZd1wW5rmKzgSyre_tysspgGWg/w205-h237/andy-button-sandia-harrison.jpg" width="205" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">FPE Automation's Andy Buton (R)<br />and me.</span></td></tr></tbody></table>The gripper is used as end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) on a robot, which is part of a production cell. The resulting engineered solution significantly optimizes the process for the tire manufacturer. </div><div><br /></div><div>"The standards were set very high for this project." Button told me, "There was no room for errors or inaccuracy. The <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc" target="_blank">PHD</a> custom team made the process seamless. The end result was that the customer has exactly what they wanted. These robot cells will work out very well for them."</div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Car Tire Innovation </span></h3><div>We can all expect to see more news in the upcoming months about robotic cells and AI being used for the manufacture of car tires. As manufacturing plants automate, quality increases. So does safety and reliability. The automotive industry has a long history of leading the way when it comes to manufacturing innovation. Typically, it's not long before other industries follow suit. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you would like to know more about how you can use AI and robot cells to streamline your operations, reach out to the experts <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>. We can arrange to take you on a tour of one of our state-of-the-art robotic and vision labs or set up a demo. Or, we can stop by and visit you. We're local.</div><div><h3><span style="font-size: large;">A Job Well Done</span></h3><div>Congratulations to <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> Andy Button, who received accolades in this month's industry newsletter from <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc" target="_blank">PHD Inc.</a> for his hard work on this project. Hats off to Travis Haynes as well, for his innovative design. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> is a preferred <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc" target="_blank">PHD Inc.</a> partner. Whether it is their high-quality, robust off-the-shelf products, or a custom solution like this one, we can help. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-27685074464326166752023-08-28T11:20:00.006-07:002024-01-10T13:31:45.535-08:00Saluting female veterans<h1 style="text-align: left;">Recognizing Unseen Heroes: Honoring the Contribution of Female Veterans of the U.S. Military</h1><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqnSkXSN3fJTFULDd5Vn_86MQ2HD26AS6y7pHG8A0PP8E-jgp-gGdJihLDX1Sygq7-q2oy0AbdGYUIsewho5-JjtdSElFtZTLp9MJlbjG9tTz4CLXu204NNXaLjJOIzfU7laog64STgw3CRTQ-NKpdfzz5GWzCkEiZRK3aHt9_C27xnwmQWWn3GYuSgA/s2017/allenforce2023.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2017" data-original-width="2017" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqnSkXSN3fJTFULDd5Vn_86MQ2HD26AS6y7pHG8A0PP8E-jgp-gGdJihLDX1Sygq7-q2oy0AbdGYUIsewho5-JjtdSElFtZTLp9MJlbjG9tTz4CLXu204NNXaLjJOIzfU7laog64STgw3CRTQ-NKpdfzz5GWzCkEiZRK3aHt9_C27xnwmQWWn3GYuSgA/s320/allenforce2023.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Event coverage by Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation<br /><p><span color="rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.9)" face="-apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">
PLAINFIELD, IL. Over this past weekend, <a href="https://allenforce.org/" target="_blank">AllenForce's</a> "All In For Veterans Charity Ride", a motorcycle ride to honor the female veterans who bravely served our country. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">These incredible individuals, soldiers who are sometimes overlooked, are so very worthy of honor and support. They have saved lives and preserved our freedom right alongside their male counterparts. We salute you.</span></p>
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The AllenForce team had this to say, "Our annual event includes a ceremony honoring a specific group of people from the military. This year [2023], we are honoring Women of the Military, the 75th Anniversary of the Women's Armed Services Integration Act. On June 12, 1948, President Truman signed into law this Act, allowing women to serve as permanent, regular members of the Armed Forces."</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">"Thank you to <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> and ALL of our sponsors and supporters of our All In For Veterans Charity Ride honoring Women Veterans."</span></p><p></p><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="2000" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifdttepw_occN6JCBV-D-4-nQKOj63sH6O2Uqz3uz6kSsbVVSKDEvHL7VUzjiXL76XPj-DaTiYb7HXtXtXp5khoa0Z83Ehw9frhoA5LXsVvbI6kfVzqcyYc3lt76dEaiCj05jS4ffQYcYuix07Dpd1CyqRpuRpS4_q3ikNC0swxBa5Ii5Lv05QJeabyxc/s320/sheforce.jpg" width="475" /><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 20px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">FPE Automation is a longtime supporter of this (and other) worthwhile charities in the community we serve. We're local in our roots, midwestern since 1963. The health of jobs, families and manufacturing in Illinois, Missouri and Iowa are important to us to the core.
#AllenForce #charity #sheforce #fpeautomation #fpegivesback #militarywomen #womenveterans #usa #companiesthatcare #rideforcharity</span></p>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-3878489904539319472023-08-25T12:31:00.004-07:002024-01-10T13:32:06.030-08:00When to manufacture it yourself - and when not to<h1 style="text-align: left;">Value-added Services: <br />How and When to Use Them</h1><div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh190-40DtBUdMyZ2RY_OU9UwhicY1vlECytjv7QGm4wnX4GZtnY9x9Zp7xN3Z6n-y3aZwNr7JwCgpDe6sl91wEeOuW8SUEtFeQ4gNEB0kZjhyrpV2CaL1BkQDSWnsOXnjtOrMgwkIJ2LDkhdEFPyDKiGizsLWCL9C35AwU3yVVNEkzNqXXKCN4DxfAPFE/s5344/IMG_20170207_132921187.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3006" data-original-width="5344" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh190-40DtBUdMyZ2RY_OU9UwhicY1vlECytjv7QGm4wnX4GZtnY9x9Zp7xN3Z6n-y3aZwNr7JwCgpDe6sl91wEeOuW8SUEtFeQ4gNEB0kZjhyrpV2CaL1BkQDSWnsOXnjtOrMgwkIJ2LDkhdEFPyDKiGizsLWCL9C35AwU3yVVNEkzNqXXKCN4DxfAPFE/s320/IMG_20170207_132921187.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><p>In today's post, let's tackle a question that is arguably one of the most difficult in manufacturing </p><p>If Shakespeare were alive today and working in production ops, instead of the famous quote, "To be or not to be," he might ask, "In-house or not in-house?" This, folks, is as close as we come in manufacturing to an "existential question". </p><p>What should you produce, and what should you outsource? When is it worthwhile? Are there times when it's a bad idea? And why, throughout the decades, has this remained such a challenging topic? </p><p>Let's break it down. </p><p>First, why can't you find a clear answer?</p><p>Even using the most sophisticated artificial intelligence (AI), you have probably already discovered that you won't find a simple answer online. We are all practically bombarded by webinars, industry publications, and blog posts. Sure, you might come across some very helpful information. However, there are too many variables. One size does not fit all. What works well for another manufacturer might not work at all for you. </p><p>You could bring in vendors, consultants, and reps. Maybe you already have. You can schedule appointments, have them stop by, and listen to their pitch. They are probably helpful - to a point. They'll tell you that they can produce sub-widget x for a specific price. You might know how much that item costs you to produce. You might not. It can be tricky to calculate. Or, you might be looking at the wrong sub-widget entirely. It's nearly impossible to tell. </p><p>It's an open-ended question with too many valid answers. </p><p>Assuming you do know the exact cost for you to manufacture the sub-assembly, and you are confident that it is the ideal spot in your manufacturing process to consider outsourcing, there are still several other factors in play.<br /><br /></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Who can produce the item more optimally? </b>Sometimes, having the parts come off one assembly cell and immediately brought to the next one can help optimize your production. For some, it creates a bottleneck. Be careful not to lose sight of the bigger picture. Your goal is not to outsource. Your goal is to streamline your operations. If it doesn't do so, look elsewhere. <br /><br /></li><li><b>How specialized is the item? </b>Certain highly specialized items might be a "custom" even for an expert in that particular area. Do the size, design, or other characteristics make it a good fit for outsourcing? If you can purchase an off-the-shelf item that is a drop-in replacement, it will often be your best choice. Protecting your intellectual property is a priority. There are certain items you may not want to outsource to protect trade secrets and avoid sharing confidential design details. <br /><br /></li><li><b>Are you facing longer production times and other interruptions?</b> If you're short on bandwidth, it can be a lifesaver to outsource an item. On the other hand, it adds an additional layer of delivery and potential delays that someone at your company will need to manage. <br /><br /></li><li><b>Can you make it better? </b>Or not as well? Quality and consistency are key, of course.<br /> </li><li><b>Factoring in labor costs: </b>Do your employees have the knowledge and time to manufacture them? Will it involve overtime or delay production? <br /><br /></li><li><b>Do you have the space to store the items? </b>You may be able to roughly calculate how many sub-assemblies you would need on your shelves to get you through a day/week/month/quarter. Do you have the physical space/square footage to both manufacture and store the item until it is ready to use?<br /><br /></li><li><b>Do you have the equipment and production space?</b> Perhaps you have aging, inefficient machines. When they break down, will it be cost-effective to invest in new ones? If you were to discard, sell, or write off that machinery, could the floor space be used for higher-value processes? <br /><br /></li><li><b>Transportation costs:</b> If you are able to outsource the items nearby, you may be in luck. If there is no local supplier, it might be very costly to get the goods to you from a distant location.<br /><br /></li></ol><div>While you were reading this list, did a specific pain point in your production process cross your mind? If so, you might have just discovered a great candidate for outsourcing. Still not sure? Here are some things to consider. </div><div><br /></div><div>Value-added services like those provided by <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> offer flexibility in manufacturing operations. Our specialized teams are well-equipped with the necessary expertise and equipment to handle specific tasks efficiently. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOQrd40My5BLcjsCV4Y_y4icFDauwMJC1zD7rKy-jzJ-AljP1O52NLW7kI8Dq6Fk6zqONCC-dGHMHq8CZ6oDJO7_PfXIytWeW7BLaTb1AvuYFo9kTjMRiduExKxsgqxDeKC3q0sbb_d3_wVrX4BjdTJRNfYDNa9fUdz-afe2FsA9wX2U2PFi4zm06f3y8/s5344/IMG_20170208_143106658.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3006" data-original-width="5344" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOQrd40My5BLcjsCV4Y_y4icFDauwMJC1zD7rKy-jzJ-AljP1O52NLW7kI8Dq6Fk6zqONCC-dGHMHq8CZ6oDJO7_PfXIytWeW7BLaTb1AvuYFo9kTjMRiduExKxsgqxDeKC3q0sbb_d3_wVrX4BjdTJRNfYDNa9fUdz-afe2FsA9wX2U2PFi4zm06f3y8/s320/IMG_20170208_143106658.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div>Countless manufacturers in the region have partnered with us for specialized sub-assembly. This is some of the actual feedback we receive.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Expertise and Specialization: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>"I can rely on <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> knowledge and skills. They have been a key contributor to our initiative to produce higher-quality products and make our processes more efficient."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Cost Efficiency: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>"For us, outsourcing certain production stages to <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> has led to cost savings due to streamlined processes, reduced waste, and optimized resource utilization."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Focus on Core Competencies: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>"Partnering with <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> has allowed us to focus on our core competencies while leaving other manufacturing tasks to the experts in that niche area."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Innovation</b>:</div><div><br /></div><div>"<a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/handshake-solutions" target="_blank">Handshake Solutions</a> team is more up-to-date with the latest technologies and innovations than we have the ability to be. Working with them gives our medium-size manufacturing company access to cutting-edge solutions without heavy R&D investments."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Scalability: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>"Collaborating with <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> gives us the flexibility to scale production up or down based on demand fluctuations, reducing added costs associated with fixed production capacities."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Time Savings: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>"Our value-added partner, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, works with us to meet our production deadlines."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Enhanced Product Quality: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>"The boost in quality and consistency we saw when we partnered with <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> value-added team has truly allowed us to make a better product."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Saving Labor: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>"Embracing automation and efficient processes can significantly save labor costs. By automating repetitive tasks and utilizing advanced technologies, we can allocate our resources to more creative and strategic roles, ultimately boosting productivity. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/handshake-solutions" target="_blank">Handshake Solutions</a> team is friendly and knowledgeable - a pleasure to work with."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ease of Ordering: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>"By creating highly specialized kits, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> value-added team has turned various components into easily manageable ordering units. They're happy to accommodate our own part number and can build items others can't. For us, that has really simplified our purchasing experience. It reduces confusion, minimizes errors, and accelerates the order fulfillment process."</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">You're in capable hands with both of FPE Automation's manufacturing partners.</h1><div><br /></div><div>Relying on the right manufacturing partner has advantages. At <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, we have two separate divisions to do the job. Our value-added team can efficiently assemble products that may be challenging and inefficient for you or even for other third-party subassemblers. Tried and true, they regularly eliminate many of the pain points discussed in this article. Manufacturers have relied on our value-added services for more than 60 years.</div><div><div><br /></div><div>Our Handshake Solution team specializes in engineered solutions and turn-key automation. For robot cells, vision systems, palletizers, and more, they are your highly regarded, go-to source you can add to your process to optimize production. </div><div><br /></div></div><div>Because this is a much bigger topic than a simple article can address, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> is here to help you tackle it. Reach out to us for an introduction to our teams. Let's start a dialogue. We exist to help you reach (and exceed) your production goals, hence our motto:</div><div><br /></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">What you do is what we do. </h1><div><br /></div><div>For more information about value-added and sub-assembly services, visit the <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/design-assemble/" target="_blank">Design/Assemble</a> page on our <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. For our <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/handshake-solutions" target="_blank">Handshake Solutions</a> division, which delivers robot cells, vision systems and other ready-to-implement solutions, you can learn more <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/handshake-solutions" target="_blank">here</a>. Or, you can reach out to us directly <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/contact/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDisdoKGggViDH3weiXhtBfDXSxIKokz_1UmvXHB-F2OXP7uw6DMsE_5vtLiZ42PTTyzx7qLW_mAO8ePmIUet5PQ1CxWj7Ls3wC8266LFxeqAtKp39d0VLTOSFG9mfhDinU5meXc9mx8j3qD4TXJ7IpLBIGKVALDrpoHv5JVbIcwd5A4WbmQc2XoMM0aA/s500/fpe-automation500.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="94" data-original-width="500" height="60" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDisdoKGggViDH3weiXhtBfDXSxIKokz_1UmvXHB-F2OXP7uw6DMsE_5vtLiZ42PTTyzx7qLW_mAO8ePmIUet5PQ1CxWj7Ls3wC8266LFxeqAtKp39d0VLTOSFG9mfhDinU5meXc9mx8j3qD4TXJ7IpLBIGKVALDrpoHv5JVbIcwd5A4WbmQc2XoMM0aA/s320/fpe-automation500.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>#fpehandshakesolutions </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-27437264632271169852023-08-17T08:43:00.010-07:002024-01-10T13:32:15.522-08:00Simplify component management with this handy do/don't list<h1 style="text-align: left;">Here are some helpful suggestions to optimize your factory automation journey - and a few to avoid.
<br /><br /></h1><div style="text-align: left;"><b>This month’s featured article is a helpful do's and don't's for anyone in automation controls, production management, or maintenance. Packed with valuable tips, condensed into a 2-minute read. What could be better? I hope you enjoy it!</b></div><div><br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div>
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<td valign="top"><h1>Does your inbox look like word salad or verbal spaghetti?</h1><div><br /></div>
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"Word salad" and "verbal spaghetti" are funny ways that overwhelmed middle managers have come to describe the endless corporate jargon that comes their way. Defined as a mix of nonsensical words and phrases, unfortunately, a lot of what hits our inboxes falls into that category. </div><div><br /></div><div>Do you run across phrases like these? </div></td>
<td><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh-_GfFVT3ylkE8UFR0vDkciOhWfwrn1DiQ5dYgPZCbMuD8bkgbEhl9emzAxoD2xPg0uz2RlCBrCGFlqPE_tSQRsQPqEBwNRITn-3lwDVHFvkr3ULfjZwJe6yLXk-vEdSAW21ZpQjaeLdriZ6GVoNJhLMfFa2WNzRyOaGJIiDLIYYBCXY1TW97z8GkqT8/s320/word-salad.png" style="margin-left: 1px;" width="300" /></td>
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</table><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> achieving efficient workflows </li><li>reducing labor costs </li><li>enhancing product quality </li><li>minimizing waste </li><li>supporting sustainability efforts </li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div> All of these are hot topics in manufacturing that have been in the news for quite a while. </div><div><br /></div><div>You have probably noticed these industry trends - on repeat. </div><div><br /></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">More than words.</h1><div><br /></div><div>Jargon aside, these topics are being discussed for good reason. They're crucial aspects of improving competitiveness and profitability for your company. </div><div><br /></div><div> The trick is to make it all happen. Easier said than done? </div><div><br /></div><div> Good news! They are goals that may be more attainable than you realize.</div><div><br />
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<td valign="top"><strong>DO use technology</strong>: leverage IoT and sensor technology to monitor component health in real time, and for controls. Predictive maintenance allows proactive identification of potential failures, reducing unplanned downtime and production disruptions. Software-driven automation is predictable and accurate.<br /><br /><strong>DO regular performance analysis: </strong>Continuously assess component performance through data analysis. Identify areas for enhancement and collaborate with engineering teams to implement design or material changes.<br /><br /><strong>AVOID reactive maintenance: </strong>Refrain from relying solely on reactive maintenance. Waiting for components to fail before taking action can lead to costly downtime and production delays.<br /><br /></td>
<td><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuLsXb9_WZnMQ4X8KkviqjQkOeQhEnrzK2Yyyo9DdqpWfgQZFReAs-7jGR-wSKE8JkYTjn1Rk-QRVkLsJ-sfi2Lw2AqoJikY1TMdjMGHqny3-Rb2cPVxE-63cz5grXTsgePtOaAFpVy8eLR1a_7EaXDTywcBv4WptEVmtMe0tsXg59J0j4hmX6-q0QAnI/s320/inventory.jpg" style="margin-left: 1px;" width="300" /></td>
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<h1 style="text-align: left;">Reaching your goals.</h1><div><br /></div><div><strong>Do stock spare parts strategically:</strong> You don't need a degree in supply chain management to maintain an organized inventory of critical spare parts based on usage trends and component lifecycles. Smart use of the reporting tools you already own should help you to minimize excess stock while ensuring the availability of the components you need to prevent prolonged downtime. If all else fails, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #7496c6; text-decoration: underline; transition: opacity 0.1s ease-in 0s;">FPE
Automation</a> has millions of items on the shelves and ready to deliver. We can also help you get things in a pinch.</div><div><br /></div><div>
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<td valign="top"><strong>Don't neglect aging components: </strong>Neglecting aging components can result in unexpected failures. Regularly evaluate the condition of components nearing the end of their lifecycle and plan for timely replacements or upgrades.
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<td valign="top"><strong>Do consider collaborative robots:</strong> Consider collaborative robots (cobots) for enhanced efficiency. With safety features and versatility, cobots (like the one pictured on the right by <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/universal-robots/" style="color: #7496c6; text-decoration: underline; transition: opacity 0.1s ease-in 0s;">Universal Robots</a>), excel in pick and place, machine tending, packaging, process tasks, finishing, and quality inspection. They operate reliably around the clock. They work safely alongside humans with no guarding needed. Cobots can boost reliability in more ways than you may realize. <p><strong>Do take lead times into account: </strong>Since COVID, lead times have been all over the board. When planning, remember to consider the duration between order placement and product receipt. Lead times impact production efficiency and, ultimately, customer satisfaction. Manage various factors, such as material procurement, production, and shipping times, to optimize your processes and ensure timely delivery.</p><p></p></td><td><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPJs6ctnjAegfSjOMBWT0vgQDvk0XJsJedJ5wN_VAK6QtKPcHNpE2cE9ZvRzs0kMVx5fWI_nVsNVwVVdgTI2Hi_ZMuYrkRsQ98D997FB0enx7wgr4X4WY3TDS6VhiRlWH8wI5YR1i55Qx8E_PJzh70et3TDBvZiP5FItpOfhUdWL_M-fLpqkaDw26kw8/s320/collaborative-robot.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em;" width="300" /></td>
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<br /><table><tbody><tr><td valign="top"><p><strong>Avoid Siloed Processes:</strong> Don't keep processes isolated. Integrate all aspects of production, from planning and scheduling to execution. This promotes seamless communication and efficient coordination.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div>
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<td valign="top"><strong>On the other hand, don't rule out production cells: </strong>When looking at your production with an integrated approach, don't underestimate the value of robot cells. Engineered for the specific products or parts they produce, robot cells can often be as close to a perfect solution as technology allows. They enhance material flow efficiency, communication, and waste reduction, yielding significant benefits for manufacturing processes. Check out our <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/handshake-solutions" style="color: #7496c6; text-decoration: underline; transition: opacity 0.1s ease-in 0s;">Handshake Solutions</a>, where you can personally create your own concept at any level you feel comfortable.<br /><br /><strong>Similarly, skip Traditional Production: </strong>Don't rely solely on traditional mass production. Embrace flexible manufacturing systems to handle diverse product variations without compromising efficiency. Well-thought-out integrations allow quick changeovers and can accommodate varying demand.<br /><br /></td><td><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb2DeCxoEVrb_OKmHI-m40FHl4FiDM0C7ECnSIGDK0hZaQO1X_l51w7fBd7eKLHOtXUsyltvL1k0QxeTaioDTUpTHYBoKTOC_K7AQJETG8us4gQkDTNqIcIVRz4iV4baCsIjoDxS4AAJz4kmBXIuGkGYl1JsP4WkF6fMO0jOcdJHgYfbcuwNfzFFd9M2k/s320/palletizer.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em;" width="300" /></td>
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</table><strong>In certain cases, consider using a Certified Systems Integrator (CSI): </strong>Consider leveraging the expertise of a Certified Systems Integrator (CSI). With technical expertise and business knowledge, CSIs uphold the highest standards, offering proven track records. They have already tested the solutions, so you don't have to. New integrations can be a huge time commitment for already busy production engineers and maintenance managers. Hiring a CSI can help alleviate most of that burden while
giving your staff the peace of mind that critical automation projects are in capable hands. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #7496c6; transition: opacity 0.1s ease-in 0s;">FPE Automation</a> can work with you, or help partner you with a qualified CSI.<p><strong>Avoid rigid automation:</strong> Steer clear of fixed automation for processes that would perform better with some adaptability. Programmable automation provides versatility by accommodating different products and batch sizes. Agility is key.</p>
<p><strong>And finally, choose the right partner: </strong><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #7496c6; text-decoration: underline; transition: opacity 0.1s ease-in 0s;">FPE Automation</a> has an award-winning, in-house, team of engineers to assist you. We inventory large quantities of the products you need most. When we make recommendations, you can be confident that have your best interest in mind. Your success is our success.</p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><strong>New levels of productivity.</strong></h1><p style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 20px;">Incorporating these principles will propel your operations into the future of automation, where
interconnected systems, data-driven decisions, and agile manufacturing redefine efficiency and productivity. </p><p>By adopting these practices, maintenance managers can optimize manufacturing component management, enhance equipment reliability, and contribute to the overall efficiency of the manufacturing process. </p><p><strong>FPE Automation is here to help.</strong></p><p>From the smallest to the largest companies in the midwest, we have longstanding relationships that have stood the test of time. </p><p>When there is a
lot on the (production) line, we have experts who can:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>team up with you to create effective solutions</li><li>send in experts to assess your needs and report back to you</li><li>put you in contact with a certified systems integrator (CSI), and help you to work with them to deliver exactly what you need</li><li><br /></li></ul><p></p><p>Whatever your needs are, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #7496c6; transition: opacity 0.1s ease-in 0s;">FPE Automation</a> has been here to help you manufacture smarter since 1963.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIKEM9tkS6-yR211MuHYG9UVlLNwwmABYoADygNcEzsK-sRIne73PfPcXDLcDTQ51ae2yrqhG69nevY-DcXQWX2tL3nRvv05Z5-vxJFMC4Wil-lWh2UH25o89DBoCvN_xXxHgKZ67Fexnp_JZd_kUuN1rTCe1ryiMVrLlJHD9c7C8FDdsbSwjGhVZFo80/s1168/FPE-60th-anniversary-logo-animation.gif" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="1168" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIKEM9tkS6-yR211MuHYG9UVlLNwwmABYoADygNcEzsK-sRIne73PfPcXDLcDTQ51ae2yrqhG69nevY-DcXQWX2tL3nRvv05Z5-vxJFMC4Wil-lWh2UH25o89DBoCvN_xXxHgKZ67Fexnp_JZd_kUuN1rTCe1ryiMVrLlJHD9c7C8FDdsbSwjGhVZFo80/s320/FPE-60th-anniversary-logo-animation.gif" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>
Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-71922454443186056202023-08-10T12:24:00.002-07:002024-01-10T13:32:44.555-08:00It's all about efficiency: automation hot topics for the remainder of this year and into Q1 2024<h1 style="text-align: left;">Important Automation Trends Worthy of Your Attention<br /><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span></p></h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kwYb1H7xIx0" width="475" youtube-src-id="kwYb1H7xIx0"></iframe></div><br /><p>Just a short time ago, it was hard to imagine being in the midst of an automation revolution. Yet here we are. It's an exciting time to be in manufacturing! Still, as summer winds down, and we approach the fourth quarter of 2023 and start thinking about (wow!) 2024, it's time for a quick recalibration. Things are moving fast. Let's slow down for just a moment to focus on the pulse and trajectory of automation in the months to come. </p><h2>Staying on Track</h2><p>Industrial automation trends for the 4th quarter of 2023 are driven by innovative technologies that enhance efficiency, productivity, and safety in various industrial sectors. These trends encompass a range of advancements, each playing a vital role in shaping the landscape of automation.</p><p>It's important to keep our eye on the prize. It really is all about efficiency and the bottom line. We know we need to automate. Let's make sure we're smart about it. </p><p>Here are some key trends to watch - and some to move away from.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Moving Toward: Increased Leveraging of Collaborative Robots</h2><p>Collaborative robots, or cobots, continue to dominate the industrial automation scene. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/universal-robots" target="_blank">Universal Robots</a> work alongside humans, offering benefits such as flexibility, safety, cost-effectiveness, improved productivity, and ease of use. Equipped with advanced sensors and software, cobots can detect human presence, movement, and touch. This capability ensures their safe interaction with human coworkers, making them an invaluable asset in many industries.</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwAiOBLD9CUSBjemZTskOxKZFVozvMXYdpx9U8HBzbUM8wke19Om-R2oBJQpFuwUT1UlvR9EmUhi44Xo9wP3zPdmH0XT-hLlpNy-BzM5BXrAfkNjRSCVnvBMGnWP_YvMTuMRio-RprkmPdYbujeoBsyiBviztO9DyyD5PAfyeYRo2an0gBw6mjsSXiBw/s3000/FPEAuto-0423.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwAiOBLD9CUSBjemZTskOxKZFVozvMXYdpx9U8HBzbUM8wke19Om-R2oBJQpFuwUT1UlvR9EmUhi44Xo9wP3zPdmH0XT-hLlpNy-BzM5BXrAfkNjRSCVnvBMGnWP_YvMTuMRio-RprkmPdYbujeoBsyiBviztO9DyyD5PAfyeYRo2an0gBw6mjsSXiBw/s320/FPEAuto-0423.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Here are just a few of the vertical markets where cobots are making a significant difference in companies' bottom lines:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>packaging automation</li><li>pick and place</li><li>welding and fastening</li><li>sanding and grinding</li><li>deburring, cutting, trimming </li><li>CNC and machine tending</li><li>material handling</li><li>finishing</li><li>dispensing</li></ul><p></p><h2>Moving Away From: Dependence on Legacy Systems</h2><p>Relying on outdated legacy systems can limit flexibility, scalability, and integration capabilities. Manufacturers can greatly benefit from transitioning to modern solutions that offer greater agility, accessibility, and scalability for their operations.</p><h2>Moving Toward: Vision Systems</h2><p>Vision systems are another significant trend in industrial automation for 2023-24. These systems utilize cameras, sensors, and algorithmic software to inspect and analyze parts and products in real time. Vision systems, like those made by <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra Technologies</a> enhance quality control and eliminate human error, as they can inspect products faster and with greater accuracy. They can be seamlessly integrated at various points along the production line, providing valuable insights into the manufacturing process.</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhYXcvQgjuJb70VThcczd7cKysuxU7pRAeYBkCiGZGJEN7Lgwp3D2eDXhRBhwCJ5NJQpxLvgpKo0m7Tw1spcc8JTGVtk57wgI48Tu4gd4u60mtc-qSwFI1xDLhH-PPl-4mDB-u_fCRq0eREu3SEl3On1UUCzkPpIHj-NCW02lIWA1NfEVe7OdZ8rpqDw/s3000/FPEAuto-0536.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhYXcvQgjuJb70VThcczd7cKysuxU7pRAeYBkCiGZGJEN7Lgwp3D2eDXhRBhwCJ5NJQpxLvgpKo0m7Tw1spcc8JTGVtk57wgI48Tu4gd4u60mtc-qSwFI1xDLhH-PPl-4mDB-u_fCRq0eREu3SEl3On1UUCzkPpIHj-NCW02lIWA1NfEVe7OdZ8rpqDw/s320/FPEAuto-0536.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br />Simply put, now and into the future, vision will be used wherever quality matters. You might be thinking, "quality matters everywhere", and of course, you would be correct. While it would be impossible to include them all, here's a partial list of industries where vision gained traction this year and where we expect the trend to continue in 2024:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>electronics manufacturing</li><li>food and beverage</li><li>automotive</li><li>pharmaceuticals</li><li>aerospace</li><li>consumer goods</li><li>metal and machinery</li><li>textile and apparel</li><li>plastics and rubber</li></ul><h2><br />Moving Away From: Manual Processes</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtqfR8uFPXTKs16XMKnnGudiDeDB6ALTlm_F6rKhceARx-ENmpSYv4ed-5-64NxvKyDNF26jCF2Wgw0sk2vvUlmR4i4hDKMI2LxD4AmAoNLzLB86guXRAonlJtZhPeqt8ngwmj-TNM22bqfvSaX67dP5woG2upkjWNC5I8nzZ_-KoWaKUqJVU0YpQCuq4/s3000/manual-process.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtqfR8uFPXTKs16XMKnnGudiDeDB6ALTlm_F6rKhceARx-ENmpSYv4ed-5-64NxvKyDNF26jCF2Wgw0sk2vvUlmR4i4hDKMI2LxD4AmAoNLzLB86guXRAonlJtZhPeqt8ngwmj-TNM22bqfvSaX67dP5woG2upkjWNC5I8nzZ_-KoWaKUqJVU0YpQCuq4/s320/manual-process.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><p>Traditional manual processes can cause errors, slow down operations, and hinder real-time decision-making. In order to stay competitive, manufacturers need to find ways to embrace automation to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and productivity. However, one size does not fit all. Intelligent automation is key.</p><h2>Moving Toward: Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs)</h2><p>AMRs have continued to emerge as a major automation trend in 2023. Robot carts, equipped with sensors and advanced computing capabilities, navigate industrial spaces autonomously. Unlike Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), AMRs offer greater flexibility and adaptability, moving in any direction and adjusting their behavior based on real-time analysis of their environment. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mir" target="_blank">Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR)</a> are becoming a popular choice for optimizing efficiency in manufacturing and packaging processes.</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi62RNcU5-EnUWwNOF-HBhQXFx_G_P2LxEakElWiBnBTvA0l4n3zP9YgIpbnXInE-I81ppbu3VhvLyifj_q-u3u37vuH9Uxj0V-a_ZXDUJqI2LkW-1eBHus1rxb0XwRphoR0qRbrch5ui1db-QqAwj0M1pC2ac940jqjtvGlm3-WdoQlZIZ_HRSib4MFs/s3000/mir.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi62RNcU5-EnUWwNOF-HBhQXFx_G_P2LxEakElWiBnBTvA0l4n3zP9YgIpbnXInE-I81ppbu3VhvLyifj_q-u3u37vuH9Uxj0V-a_ZXDUJqI2LkW-1eBHus1rxb0XwRphoR0qRbrch5ui1db-QqAwj0M1pC2ac940jqjtvGlm3-WdoQlZIZ_HRSib4MFs/s320/mir.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>These are a few key areas where AMRs continue to quickly gain popularity due to their effectiveness:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>distribution centers and order fulfillment</li><li>warehouses</li><li>cleaning and disinfection</li><li>hospitals and healthcare facilities</li><li>manufacturing</li><li>safer internal transport of heavy loads</li><li>loading/unloading</li></ul><h2><br />Moving Away From: Dated Approaches to Maintenance Planning</h2><p>Failing to implement proactive maintenance practices and relying on reactive maintenance can lead to increased downtime and higher maintenance costs. This is a key area where directors, owners, and managers should take note. It is to your benefit to empower your maintenance managers. Encourage them to shift towards predictive and preventive maintenance strategies, leveraging the latest technology to optimize equipment performance and minimize disruptions - before they happen. </p><h2>Moving Toward: Industry 4.0</h2><p>Industry 4.0, often referred to as the fourth industrial revolution, emphasizes the integration of technologies like AI, big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics. These technologies work together to increase productivity, monitoring capabilities, and flexibility in production facilities. Real-time data monitoring and communication, enabled by interconnectivity, are at the core of Industry 4.0, empowering industries to make informed decisions and respond to market changes promptly. Experts like those in <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/handshake-solutions" target="_blank">FPE Automation's Handshake Solutions</a> division are able to combine these technologies to create turnkey systems or intelligent robot cells to help companies leverage the technology. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLeMVLOxNmBLAhblOuvrpV3vqJY_D0ZiTxbBICrxX0GAbyInErBoZMTLV1RFyB7Heo9xOSciT85qrSc9zpxwWY09xacEKZjvB2PikatNaADby-7nhp7O6GDq6QCiw9hVh3Wtz6C4RkqZyX5SJfX5FRIF_2o1DIxt5Jc3LNd45_4Ebr62ZO1geiXw_EfQ/s3000/pharma.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLeMVLOxNmBLAhblOuvrpV3vqJY_D0ZiTxbBICrxX0GAbyInErBoZMTLV1RFyB7Heo9xOSciT85qrSc9zpxwWY09xacEKZjvB2PikatNaADby-7nhp7O6GDq6QCiw9hVh3Wtz6C4RkqZyX5SJfX5FRIF_2o1DIxt5Jc3LNd45_4Ebr62ZO1geiXw_EfQ/s320/pharma.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p>A "robot cell" or "turnkey solution" in manufacturing refers to an automatic work cell that incorporates one or more programmable robots along with grippers, tooling, programming and other automation. Both collaborative robots (<a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/universal-robots" target="_blank">Universal Robots</a>) and traditional industrial robots (<a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/epson/" target="_blank">Epson</a>, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics" target="_blank">Kawasaki</a>) can be used, depending on the application. By addressing a single production need with an all-encompassing, start-to-finish approach, they enhance the production process overall by maximizing efficiency, speed, and repeatability of product quality. The result is a highly advanced and integrated solution designed to optimize specific manufacturing tasks and operations. </p><p>There are many benefits. </p><p><b>Cost-Efficiency:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>replaces expensive labor</li><li>works quickly, boosts production</li><li>economical, when compared to separate equipment or manual labor</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Improved Production Rate:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>rapid and repeatable tasks</li><li>higher-quality products, more consistent quality</li><li>satisfies customers, increases revenue</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Reduced Downtime:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>continuous workflow</li><li>quick application changes</li><li>minimizes production losses</li></ul><p></p><p><b>All-in-One/Turnkey Solutions:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Customized automation</li><li>Made for your specific manufacturing process</li><li>simplifies automation needs</li></ul><h2><br />Moving Away From: Obsolete Equipment and Parts</h2><p>Continuing to use obsolete equipment and components can result in higher maintenance expenses, longer downtime, and decreased productivity. Manufacturers should invest in modernizing their equipment, utilizing predictive analytics to identify and replace aging components before they fail.</p><h2>Moving Toward: 3D and 4D Vision Technology for Robotic Automation</h2><p>The convergence of machine learning and automation brings unprecedented control over operations. Machine learning applications are groundbreaking. Companies like <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/apera" target="_blank">Apera AI</a> and <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/mech-mind/" target="_blank">Mech-mind</a> are advancing robotic automation through the development and implementation of cutting-edge vision technology. They both contribute to making enable robots to perform tasks with human-like speed, sight, and perception, giving them ever-increasing precision and intelligence.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tv8h5dxVfPMdGitQk_UaR9eDH7xxLH8OqHa2Tz3EP-w-JgqCpTEMDyhVWhX2CEi2vk4siOiZxpvdQEyTOuHAMnH6YmPtXeJGSB3gwuu1mqUlNwsK4vdIYCUnKmrkyXyhxHOJ9ZQPOzQK59usAywvwXg9YniCdMawlFuJPapgGmjY5FELejcfdJFqnz4/s3000/pickandplace.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tv8h5dxVfPMdGitQk_UaR9eDH7xxLH8OqHa2Tz3EP-w-JgqCpTEMDyhVWhX2CEi2vk4siOiZxpvdQEyTOuHAMnH6YmPtXeJGSB3gwuu1mqUlNwsK4vdIYCUnKmrkyXyhxHOJ9ZQPOzQK59usAywvwXg9YniCdMawlFuJPapgGmjY5FELejcfdJFqnz4/s320/pickandplace.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p>The latest innovations have been groundbreaking in areas such as:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>bin picking</li><li>packaging</li><li>assembly</li><li>part sorting</li><li>machine tending</li><li>kitting</li><li>palletizing/de-palletizing</li><li>inline measurement</li></ul><p></p><h2>What You Do is What We Do</h2><p>These automation trends showcase the continuous evolution of industrial processes, driven by technological advancements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and safety across various sectors. As businesses embrace these trends, they position themselves to stay competitive and adapt to the changing landscape of industrial automation. At <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, whatever it is that you need to accomplish, it's our job to help you achieve your automation goals. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0VIAYUD1WGrWQna1xEMC98z1C63wfi1oRS0WOFME8DZiAOCb73nS4r54c-VH5oUqqrq8vF_SfojbJpfGsVIDGcFc7lZwLWvzTudeHEeXbCW74i1WXqpgqPsGzQn878dzMSS7TcvEcOPsRa4SgHoP_iv0gzbs5VxLW0pj5ABCPnmivzTll5HP8WHW9hM/s1168/FPE-60th-anniversary-logo-animation.gif" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="1168" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0VIAYUD1WGrWQna1xEMC98z1C63wfi1oRS0WOFME8DZiAOCb73nS4r54c-VH5oUqqrq8vF_SfojbJpfGsVIDGcFc7lZwLWvzTudeHEeXbCW74i1WXqpgqPsGzQn878dzMSS7TcvEcOPsRa4SgHoP_iv0gzbs5VxLW0pj5ABCPnmivzTll5HP8WHW9hM/s320/FPE-60th-anniversary-logo-animation.gif" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> is celebrating its 60th anniversary; 1963-2023. Imagine how much industrial automation has changed over the past six decades! <br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-2912651422761711992023-08-08T14:07:00.005-07:002024-01-10T13:26:32.980-08:00Avoid these common misunderstandings when using machine vision or barcode scanning<h1 style="text-align: left;">Do's and Don'ts: Unleashing the True Potential of Machine Vision</h1><span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><p>In the ever-evolving world of technology, businesses and industries have a real need to consistently seek innovative solutions to enhance efficiency, productivity, and overall performance. Put simply, if they don’t, they won’t remain competitive for long. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxU40P9OH8hdcnz1jFO5grIg-jqrvlSWqTCV8bQG5pD5kr628t13Y_rWSqUZUJaOWBnJlDemW70BuRI2HtvhCIlXOhjCHdik8xVhXCX6jH15W2sL70jNisQTsWi2tZk-c8o366hRmI-dBWY6FqzDAm2cMhnJXAs07J6u55RalzeTYxZWYYnL4XYwpTd8w/s3600/cye-manufacturing-plant-floor-conveyor-16x9-3600.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2025" data-original-width="3600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxU40P9OH8hdcnz1jFO5grIg-jqrvlSWqTCV8bQG5pD5kr628t13Y_rWSqUZUJaOWBnJlDemW70BuRI2HtvhCIlXOhjCHdik8xVhXCX6jH15W2sL70jNisQTsWi2tZk-c8o366hRmI-dBWY6FqzDAm2cMhnJXAs07J6u55RalzeTYxZWYYnL4XYwpTd8w/s320/cye-manufacturing-plant-floor-conveyor-16x9-3600.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Machine vision and barcode scanning technology help companies do just that. Innovations by companies like <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra Technologies</a> have emerged as powerful tools for solving a long list of pain points that are commonly associated with old-school manufacturing.</p>
Here are just a few of the many benefits:
<ul>
<li>Enhanced quality and process control</li>
<li>Detection of visual inconsistencies in labels, packages, and item designs on production lines, minimizing defects that could lead to returns, noncompliance penalties, and other financial losses</li>
<li>Automated inspection</li>
<li>Streamlining and process improvement</li>
<li>Real-time visual inspections of items as they move down the line</li>
<li>Trackability/traceability</li>
<li>Improved operational visibility</li>
<li>Compliance with regulations</li>
</ul>
<p>However, amid the excitement of adopting cutting-edge solutions, many customers often fall prey to certain misconceptions and pitfalls that can hinder the full realization of the technology's potential. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Not Taking Full Advantage of the Customization Potential</h2><p>One prevalent misconception among many companies is the assumption that machine vision solutions are one-size-fits-all. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> has a team of experts that can offer you a higher degree of flexibility, allowing your business to tailor the solutions to your unique environment and application. By understanding your specific needs, our team can work with your engineers to harness the full power of customization and achieve optimal efficiency in your operations.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Not Fully Understanding the Process in Advance</h2><p>Adopting machine vision technology is a transformative journey. While <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra's</a> range of mobile computers, barcode scanners, and RFID readers are indeed powerful, successful implementation requires careful planning, integration, and adaptation. The right approach ensures a smoother transition and long-term success. At <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, it is our role to assemble the right team to do the job. We can involve top industry talent and, if necessary, pull in our own <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/handshake-solutions" target="_blank">Handshake Solutions</a> team to help you achieve your goals. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsq2lWb--EpyyotQahmoLpUNb21pGsYWBH0HaglVEXVr7fIr4PTLUj202rst77puLOaTphF0Us7UaOTv1O6poyXq9Wo2Dg1thgI5vX-Hdq9Zf2c3ZaAzh4EqA-gI7qpJgKoSFD3fZ9nORr-1HKVtMqi2JCp53TiSjyvJdLind3RQqwyvAnCBmJxZiBr58/s3600/rfd90-photography-website-manufacturing-single-auto-part-rfid-3600.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2025" data-original-width="3600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsq2lWb--EpyyotQahmoLpUNb21pGsYWBH0HaglVEXVr7fIr4PTLUj202rst77puLOaTphF0Us7UaOTv1O6poyXq9Wo2Dg1thgI5vX-Hdq9Zf2c3ZaAzh4EqA-gI7qpJgKoSFD3fZ9nORr-1HKVtMqi2JCp53TiSjyvJdLind3RQqwyvAnCBmJxZiBr58/s320/rfd90-photography-website-manufacturing-single-auto-part-rfid-3600.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Customer Success Story: Revolutionizing Warehouse Management</h2><p>One inspiring success story comes from a leading e-commerce giant that was struggling to optimize its warehouse operations. Facing challenges in inventory management, order accuracy, and overall efficiency, the company turned to <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra's</a> industrial machine vision and fixed scanners.</p><p>Upon partnering with <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra's</a> experts, the e-commerce giant underwent a comprehensive evaluation of their warehouse layout and operational workflows. The <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra</a> team collaborated closely with the customer to customize a solution that perfectly aligned with their specific needs.</p><p>Through the seamless integration of machine vision technology, the organization's upper management witnessed a remarkable transformation. Real-time tracking and accurate data capture minimized errors in order fulfillment, leading to increased customer satisfaction. The ability to tailor the solution to the warehouse environment maximized efficiency and boosted productivity.</p><p><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra's</a> machine vision technology offers immense potential for businesses across diverse industries. To truly unlock its power, companies must steer clear of common misunderstandings and misconceptions. By embracing customization, managing expectations, and assembling the right team to do the job, businesses can harness the true potential of <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra's</a> cutting-edge solutions.</p><h2>We Live in a World Where Manufacturing Excellence and Operational Efficiency Matter More and More</h2><div>Partnering with <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> for your machine vision and barcode scanning needs is a strategic choice that ensures your company stays ahead of the curve. With a genuine commitment to simplifying complexity, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, in collaboration with <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra</a>, offers an unparalleled solution that transforms fixed scanning and machine vision into streamlined, accessible processes. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzepy7oeXVvyCtzFFdP3LJTTZw67Jl4A1_JJHYwjyJNL8kg1abNQRlF44Vp7AwfCfMDYvX-HbEzn2UNr6adk_Ggwu9pDkEebs-HezpCQME0aDF28G1TPfMkoAHp3t5Zp2qX9CtYc5kxWjBAJz7-k80GPWNi36-b87IUbOicHUMEQS88AbyM7_2RpH404/s8538/simple-solutions-to-complex-problems.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="8522" data-original-width="8538" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzepy7oeXVvyCtzFFdP3LJTTZw67Jl4A1_JJHYwjyJNL8kg1abNQRlF44Vp7AwfCfMDYvX-HbEzn2UNr6adk_Ggwu9pDkEebs-HezpCQME0aDF28G1TPfMkoAHp3t5Zp2qX9CtYc5kxWjBAJz7-k80GPWNi36-b87IUbOicHUMEQS88AbyM7_2RpH404/s320/simple-solutions-to-complex-problems.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra's</a> groundbreaking hardware and software platform, backed by decades of industrial leadership, empowers you to unlock new levels of productivity and precision. Whether you're a novice or an expert, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> expertise ensures a smooth journey, from setup to execution, enabling your company to seize the benefits of <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" target="_blank">Zebra's</a> game-changing innovation. Embrace the future of industrial automation with confidence as the engineers at <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> work with your engineers to pave the way for your success.</div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-24799619363579967832023-07-28T08:28:00.004-07:002024-01-10T13:33:06.183-08:00 Unveiling MIO-Link™: the future of I/O link devices at FPE Automation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLqD2ZtuoBx48P4QPcYETGQLFsJqrXKi7-b_6sxq5cy7XH8hXKYUuZpZjGpssdspn_2QxVkJiDSY6UNLo9p9kmRobIL_8KJD3GDXaHXwdP9G0srPEOZ0ihU6i3yd7E-bEDzRWO4J1Lhd2tPqsKji2LAvrnX3_6MyuStczDq66SRY7dVc9xaJJlD7iEwY/s703/PXL_20230725_173521095-(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="429" data-original-width="703" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLqD2ZtuoBx48P4QPcYETGQLFsJqrXKi7-b_6sxq5cy7XH8hXKYUuZpZjGpssdspn_2QxVkJiDSY6UNLo9p9kmRobIL_8KJD3GDXaHXwdP9G0srPEOZ0ihU6i3yd7E-bEDzRWO4J1Lhd2tPqsKji2LAvrnX3_6MyuStczDq66SRY7dVc9xaJJlD7iEwY/s320/PXL_20230725_173521095-(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">Introducing MIO-Link™</h1>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span>
<p>You may have heard about the highly-anticipated MIO-Link™ launch. It is MAC Valves' new total connectivity fieldbus solution. Today I'm partnering up with FPE Automation's Colton Rentsch, Automation Engineer, to delve into the functionalities of MIO-Link™ and explore how this latest technological advancement can elevate your automation.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gioH1d7OOGc" width="475" youtube-src-id="gioH1d7OOGc"></iframe></div><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is MIO-Link™?</h2><p>At its core, MIO-Link™ is an innovative I/O Link device that leverages state-of-the-art technology to redefine Fieldbus. Built to be the ultimate, single cable, point-to-point solution, these devices offer exceptional versatility, performance, and diagnostics capabilities, making them a game-changer for industries seeking precision and efficiency. Using just one cable, you can isolate communication and power to individual pins easily integrated into a machine safety circuit. This single cable solution greatly reduces setup time and wiring needed for valve connection.</p><p>Made by MAC Valves in Wixom, MI, MIO-Link™ has patented MAC quality built into every manifold.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Unleashing the Power of MIO-Link™</h2><p>Let's take a closer look at the key features that make MIO-Link™ an indispensable asset for any automation setup. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">I/O Link Master Integration</h2><p>MIO-Link™ seamlessly integrates with I/O link masters for its operation. This integration ensures smooth communication and coordination between devices, optimizing the automation process.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Scalable Solenoid Channels</h2><p>With up to 32 solenoid channels, MIO-Link™ provides unmatched scalability. Whether you are managing a small-scale application or a complex industrial process, this device has you covered.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Comprehensive Diagnostics</h2><p>MIO-Link™ doesn't just automate; it empowers you with vital information. The device reports diagnostics information to the master, including critical parameters such as open circuit (no load), over current (short circuit), under voltage, over-voltage, and over temperature. This proactive approach enables efficient troubleshooting and minimizes downtime.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Available Models</h2><p>MIO-Link™ is compatible with MAC Valves' 36, 42, 46 and 92 series valves, with other series available upon request. Use them with any Fieldbus platform, including Ethernet IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT, and more. MIO-Link™ comes in two distinct models - Class A and Class B - each tailored to meet specific requirements:</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Class A Model</h3><p>The Class A model draws power for its electronics from the master and power for valves from an additional M12 connector. With 2x M12 connectors (I/O link & power), it is compatible with Class A and Class B masters.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Class B Model</h3><p>In the Class B model, both electronics and valves draw power from the master. The master supplies up to 4A maximum total for all devices attached to it, ensuring seamless functionality. The Class B model features a 1x M12 connector and is designed to be compatible with Class B masters.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Engineering-friendly and Ready to Operate</h2><p>Are you ready to take your operations to the next level? MIO-Link™, available at FPE Automation, is the gateway to enhanced productivity, efficiency, and precision. To begin your automation journey with MIO-Link™ and explore the endless possibilities it offers, reach out to FPE Automation for a personalized quote and additional information. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing top-notch solutions that propel your business forward.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">MIO-Link™: Embrace the Future of Automation</h2><p>MIO-Link™ stands at the forefront of automation innovation, ushering in a new era of seamless connectivity and intelligent solutions. As industries evolve and demand efficiency, FPE Automation's MIO-Link™ sets the standard for I/O Link devices, driving progress and transforming how we perceive connectivity.</p>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-46699366398091870222023-07-06T14:00:00.002-07:002024-01-10T13:33:36.471-08:00Landmark Win: FPE Automation secures prestigious Distributor of the Year Award from partner MAC Valves <h1 style="text-align: left;">Celebrating Excellence: MAC Valves Announces FPE Automation is Winner of Distributor of the Year Award for 2022</h1><p><span style="font-size: small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbY2oRJfTXLHdwYw2yB7kcD1-Wukgo15HEJCsOy0JxdzYWthjGqHtETSzQEcbs9ZVdNY8FmGZYiv9DOVHSz-AahDC1yFfOeu2erjbP6y-HlAv-McrW0p6HsQmWmlGY_1Ms8Qry5zAsc0FgwYlswTMMpbULEexEUHWwPzsI8eticxCPa9nxqnO9vxKtZUk/s2400/david-joey-bardos.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1552" data-original-width="2400" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbY2oRJfTXLHdwYw2yB7kcD1-Wukgo15HEJCsOy0JxdzYWthjGqHtETSzQEcbs9ZVdNY8FmGZYiv9DOVHSz-AahDC1yFfOeu2erjbP6y-HlAv-McrW0p6HsQmWmlGY_1Ms8Qry5zAsc0FgwYlswTMMpbULEexEUHWwPzsI8eticxCPa9nxqnO9vxKtZUk/s320/david-joey-bardos.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Breaking news: July 6, 2023, Wixom, Michigan</p><p>MAC Valves announced today that FPE Automation is the recipient of their Distributor of the Year award for 2022. It is the company's unprecedented fourth time receiving the coveted award. </p><p>We are incredibly thrilled and humbled to announce that FPE Automation has been honored with the Distributor of the Year award. It is with immense pride that we share this remarkable achievement with each and every one of you who has played an integral role in our success.</p><p>MAC Valves manufactures a superior, patented product in a class of its own. While that's undoubtedly true, this particular success is, in no small part, a result of new and innovative ways to address manufacturing pain points and save costs using the latest technology. </p><p>FPE Automation's Joey Bardos, President, explains:</p><p><i>"Throughout the years, FPE Automation has continued to evolve, adapt and grow alongside MAC Valves and have had great success in doing so. We have constantly championed the technology that MAC has provided and have taken a leadership role since the inception of the MAC Distributor Network (MDN)."</i></p><p>MDN is a global organization of independent distributors and manufacturers with the common focus of customer service and support at any time, anywhere in the world. </p><p><i>"David Bardos, CEO, was an integral part in the formation of the MDN. He and I continue to help lead and grow this best‐in‐class, irreplicable group," Bardos continued. </i></p><p><i>"Our strong relationships with our customers and our long-tenured and loyal employees have allowed us to go out and present new innovations that are transformative to manufacturers and helpful to their bottom line. This win was truly built one purposeful conversation at a time." </i></p><h1 style="text-align: left;">"They are strategic conversations that pool from our resources to determine the next action steps needed for success."</h1><p><i>"Our success in 2022 was not just a result of doing what we have always done. Adding specific technology specialists was a major kick‐start to rapid growth. Scott Massie, whose 20+ years of knowledge in the MDN and the pneumatics industry is second to none, has been instrumental in not only assisting in market share gains but mentoring a new wave of specialists and helping to instill the MAC DNA that FPE Automation embodies. Along with Scott, our entire management/ownership team understands that it takes a cohesive unit to identify and start projects and see them to the finish line. We meet weekly to go over major projects. Those meetings are not just a rehashing. Rather, they are strategic conversations that pool from our resources to determine the next action steps needed for success."</i></p><p><i>The new growth we have been experiencing recently has come from our ability to capitalize on what we know and do well. We have long had success in industries such as transportation, food/beverage, and packaging. At the same time, we have found ways to go wider and deeper into streamlining operations utilizing the latest technology and newest innovations."</i></p><p><i>"Still, the secret sauce lies in our people. It comes back to attitude and activity. We preach that these are the only two things you can control, and our entire team works hard, works together, works often, and goes about it in pursuit of success. We also have a great time doing it! We hope to continue that driving forward." </i></p><p>The award was announced by Matthew Neff, President & COO, and Joseph Richardson, Vice‐President of Sales at MAC Valves, with their congratulations on what they called a "tremendous success".</p><p>Once again, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to our success. Your support has been invaluable, and we look forward to celebrating this remarkable achievement together. This award is a reminder that together, we can accomplish great things.</p><p>Thank you for being part of it all. Wherever innovation takes us next, we look forward to the journey. </p>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-20141945871562149742023-06-23T08:47:00.005-07:002024-01-10T13:33:56.908-08:00More efficient dust collection: green energy initiatives work better when they are part of THIS comprehensive approach<h1 style="text-align: left;">For Dust Collectors, Sustainability is Key</h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhax9geu3wDg-RIx-nLmLOaV0N2sgscPxztT6ISHl6rOPVEFbTYOj9HLPaatTAc_uytxOiPZaR8vTLIpXRfEy4q_d3QI7g4zW4Z5x1XV8Dy_NZ_LsF1MmojQ6Prg4a-YDpPGswt7IsKUE7_c35TZf6-laRpFEEfLIo5aI7mvoI5rDz3GPyBiyyQmR6JR1k/s6000/industrial-dust-collection.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhax9geu3wDg-RIx-nLmLOaV0N2sgscPxztT6ISHl6rOPVEFbTYOj9HLPaatTAc_uytxOiPZaR8vTLIpXRfEy4q_d3QI7g4zW4Z5x1XV8Dy_NZ_LsF1MmojQ6Prg4a-YDpPGswt7IsKUE7_c35TZf6-laRpFEEfLIo5aI7mvoI5rDz3GPyBiyyQmR6JR1k/w400-h266/industrial-dust-collection.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Minor savings in energy costs can result in added costs and risks elsewhere. Dust collectors have options. </h2><div><span style="font-size: small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span></div><div><br /></div><div><b>"Consider This - Single Energy Projects Don't Maximize Savings"</b> <a href="https://www.industryweek.com/" target="_blank">Industry Week</a> reports. If you've been a part of a corporate energy initiative, you might have found that statement to be painfully obvious. Lots of effort to save a few hundred dollars. Sound familiar? </div><div><br /></div><div>For manufacturers, there are big motivators to save energy. For several years, in the U.S., tax incentives were in place to entice corporations to reduce their energy consumption. The dollar savings (read: bottom line on the company's energy bill) is another good reason to reduce costs. Sustainability and going "green" are increasingly important aspects of operating in today's business climate. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, manufacturing plants everywhere adopted measure after measure in their quest to re-think the way they consume energy. As you would expect, some worked better than others. Those mixed results were confusing. </div><div><br /></div><div>For many plant managers, energy-saving efforts like building improvements were at the top of their list, in terms of priority. Better insulation, energy-efficient windows, smart light switches and roofing systems certainly do reduce heating and cooling loads. The problem is, upgrades like those involve significant upfront costs, which can diminish or even completely nullify, their effectiveness, creating a false economy. Add an increase of labor costs and disruption to ongoing operations, and suddenly they don't seem very appealing. </div><div><br /></div><div>In fact, most of the items in the top 10 list of so-called "improvements" cost more money to implement than they saved. FPE Automation meets with companies on a daily basis, and the conversation is always similar. You are not getting enough "bang for their buck". We hear you. You are trying. Quite frankly, you're a bit frustrated. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, how do you really reduce your carbon footprint without increasing costs? How do you do so in such a way that it produces measurable results? </div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXQ_RELS2droxe7K7SGnULFtm05hbgJyzFZ6mODXcqhQkJkdtzwHGTGAGJFWnUV19TxZb37ibSpVQ4jyQfuB3wDc-r5Gqp7bQ68eM9HY5LYyfDeeK2Hxjtutq0PdfGqgQRA9rwyIAqVk_FWn4lNu15LEmEi-6n9YtyCmDWcp0XD18WIvcbTu7Eo7VDIao/s2501/factory-worker-climbing-a-ladder.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1667" data-original-width="2501" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXQ_RELS2droxe7K7SGnULFtm05hbgJyzFZ6mODXcqhQkJkdtzwHGTGAGJFWnUV19TxZb37ibSpVQ4jyQfuB3wDc-r5Gqp7bQ68eM9HY5LYyfDeeK2Hxjtutq0PdfGqgQRA9rwyIAqVk_FWn4lNu15LEmEi-6n9YtyCmDWcp0XD18WIvcbTu7Eo7VDIao/s320/factory-worker-climbing-a-ladder.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A factory worker climbs a ladder to replace older, <br />malfunctioning diaphragm valves in inclement weather.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div>It turns out, equipment optimization is at the top of the list. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Is Your Dust Collector "Collecting Dust"? <br /></h2><div>Dust collection itself is not new. Your dust collector has been there for a while. In most cases, longer than you. The federal regulations that require them have been around since the 1970s. Your actual dust collector is, idiomatically, collecting dust. </div><div><br /></div><div>The sheer number of plants required to have dust collection systems in place is huge:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Woodworking operations, sawmills, furniture manufacturing, and wood processing facilities are typically required to have dust collection systems in place. <br /><br /></li><li>If you produce certain chemicals, depending on the specific chemicals involved and the potential for emissions, your facility may need to have dust collection systems to comply with EPA regulations.<br /><br /></li><li>Many metalworking processes, such as welding, grinding, and cutting, can generate airborne particulate matter. This type of manufacturing facility may be subject to EPA regulations that require the installation of dust collection systems to control emissions and protect air quality.<br /><br /></li><li>Mining operations, including coal mining, mineral extraction, and quarrying, often generate significant amounts of dust. The EPA has regulations, such as the New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), that impose requirements on the control of dust emissions from mining activities.<br /><br /></li><li>Facilities involved in grain handling, such as grain elevators, mills, bakeries and food processing plants, often have regulations in place for controlling dust emissions. The EPA's Grain Handling Facilities National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) addresses particulate matter emissions from grain handling operations.</li></ul></div><div>FPE Automation has experience with all of the above, plus pet food manufacturers, hospitals, and a manufacturer of roofing products, which you'll read more about below. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is not intended to be an all-inclusive list. If you're not sure if you're required to have a dust collection system in your plant, check with the appropriate regulatory authority. However, this list does give an idea of how many businesses across the United States have been required to comply since the NESHAP guidelines were adopted a half-century ago. If you're reading this, you may be one of the hundreds of thousands of individuals somehow involved in managing a dust collection system. </div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgny9CHrK3j35kdLzzPJ8vqripv0va5Gvoh8mUfeE9pmYsLYPYCEs0bQubHienty6JcYIgX8oRORDIVXAKXNrorGqrmm6Lz5yfhHUWIgt4uSozW5XCfB6ECFlReuzrUCf0RcO-jJ7lauAL00GEbm6mwsxxQjO1aGLEWEnfvc_vWvyPIhWcQQntLyGFTgBA/s4032/corporate-energy-costs.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgny9CHrK3j35kdLzzPJ8vqripv0va5Gvoh8mUfeE9pmYsLYPYCEs0bQubHienty6JcYIgX8oRORDIVXAKXNrorGqrmm6Lz5yfhHUWIgt4uSozW5XCfB6ECFlReuzrUCf0RcO-jJ7lauAL00GEbm6mwsxxQjO1aGLEWEnfvc_vWvyPIhWcQQntLyGFTgBA/s320/corporate-energy-costs.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Companies like ComEd and Ameren like what the raw data <br />shows. PV technology from MAC Valves is provento <br />significantly reduce energy consumption.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div>FPE Automation has also partnered with the energy providers in the region. Companies like ComEd and Ameren like what the raw data shows. In other words, this technology is proven to significantly reduce energy consumption. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Better Air Quality: A Technological Breakthrough</h2><div>Dust collection is not new, and that's exactly the problem. Many dust collection systems have not changed significantly over the past 50 years. If equipment optimization tops the list of effective strategies to save energy, then why haven't more manufacturers looked to their obsolete methods of dust collection, as a way to reduce energy costs? </div><div><br /></div><div>The answer is simple. Until recently, the technology remained relatively unchanged. </div><div><br /></div><div>Dust collection engineering is finally catching up with the green initiative. </div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPPIQdIgP1TNcRKTtCQVk31-hsy9Wtgpq2_TwlFXXf4lZtNNW1oquVVYEgRLrYO_ogqYrELpfcKg7Uh-WbqNyUgj_6ESjy7omUN4SRvKibWMsdaR63220QTtsADhuE3TLehpOfLgv5g-BOVizzQhaAx_KQ62OunCUMCynpy30ictm9AcD-X_FgyDtRgw/s4896/dust-collector.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="4896" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPPIQdIgP1TNcRKTtCQVk31-hsy9Wtgpq2_TwlFXXf4lZtNNW1oquVVYEgRLrYO_ogqYrELpfcKg7Uh-WbqNyUgj_6ESjy7omUN4SRvKibWMsdaR63220QTtsADhuE3TLehpOfLgv5g-BOVizzQhaAx_KQ62OunCUMCynpy30ictm9AcD-X_FgyDtRgw/s320/dust-collector.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">When cleaner is <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">not</span> better: this inefficient dust collection <br />system is running, but collecting next to nothing.<br /> A nearly complete waste of energy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table>The current generation of pulse valves (PV) from MAC Valves collects more airborne contaminants, using less energy. Best of all, their improved, patented design isn't susceptible to sticking, jamming or breaking down. Remember those hidden costs of improvement mentioned above? Replacing your pulse valves just once can eliminate the need for workers to perform ongoing emergency replacements. Not to mention the hazards of climbing up to access them. </div><div><br /></div><div><h2>A New Era of Green Energy for Dust-Collecting Manufacturing Plants </h2><div>As with most new technology, if it's good, then word begins to spread. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZSq9Mi-EjcSjmO9XRpnAXX-5oP_By3miwpjXawIo2fRxQjQCUk6398Krp2tDxM1k_oBM9X9vt1cwfahdg11hbI3FeyRPaqjKNSJ9APzYiSmHyYPAlX0PWuDzGX1coLjb1-hI913e5R4aM2x2Blh0CzEyUmr6L3xW1eQWCrY-sPi29h848I0tXexOz9c/s800/fpe-team-dust-collection-energy-savings.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="800" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZSq9Mi-EjcSjmO9XRpnAXX-5oP_By3miwpjXawIo2fRxQjQCUk6398Krp2tDxM1k_oBM9X9vt1cwfahdg11hbI3FeyRPaqjKNSJ9APzYiSmHyYPAlX0PWuDzGX1coLjb1-hI913e5R4aM2x2Blh0CzEyUmr6L3xW1eQWCrY-sPi29h848I0tXexOz9c/w400-h253/fpe-team-dust-collection-energy-savings.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FPE Automation's award-winning team. L to R: <br />Scott Jokerst, Steve Carrera, Cody Schmelzle</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div>A global manufacturer of roof shingles had recently retrofitted their Florida plant with new, better-performing pulse valves. Dust Collection expert Jonathan Moon from <a href="https://adamscorp.com/" target="_blank">Adams</a> had received an industry award for the upgrade. </div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXpENVqem9ljIZuiKt8BtlEVNhSSTTWme96VZjxXO4cRra5Uj_D2yVkyLvBMIojDDby-saCdBAlSBTZB6TRCCeAcMFxxAabX9E137cPc8CVy9V5D1QVTzkOcPHWn_oE0fCVOedbNgDDe8-i_dekP-g0jqYKqdrZSn1Aj2Z0Jn8sX-Yrz2Xrh5ghFqjvw/s1560/Pulse-Valve-Install.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXpENVqem9ljIZuiKt8BtlEVNhSSTTWme96VZjxXO4cRra5Uj_D2yVkyLvBMIojDDby-saCdBAlSBTZB6TRCCeAcMFxxAabX9E137cPc8CVy9V5D1QVTzkOcPHWn_oE0fCVOedbNgDDe8-i_dekP-g0jqYKqdrZSn1Aj2Z0Jn8sX-Yrz2Xrh5ghFqjvw/s320/Pulse-Valve-Install.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">An update in progress: replacing underperforming <br />valves with MAC Valves. Photo courtesy<br />of Doug Adams, used with permission. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div>That success story was passed on to their sister plant in Piedmont, Missouri. FPE Automation's Scott Jokerst, Solution Specialist, and Steve Carrera, Dust Collection Expert, stepped in to assist them in retrofitting that plant with new, better-performing pulse valves. </div><div><br /></div><div>After testing and implementation at the facility in Piedmont, a detailed assessment took place. It was determined to be so successful that another location in Jonesburg, Missouri, wanted to duplicate it. The plant engineer worked with Cody Schmelzle and Steve Carrera. He informed FPE Automation that his corporation had an incentive for projects that helped the company save energy. FPE Automation and MAC Valves worked with the company to make certain that delivery aligned with his deadline. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>As a result, on May 31, 2023, FPE Automation received an industry award from MAC Valves for their expertise and participation in two major installations. Mathew Neff, President & COO, and Joseph Richardson, VP of Sales for MAC Valves, made the announcement and congratulated the team.</div><div><br /></div><div>Technology has finally caught up. In the area of dust collection, we are now able to reduce energy costs in a measurable way without hidden costs or other pitfalls. At the same time, we can reduce the level of airborne contaminants, enhance reliability and improve serviceability. All more efficiently than we could before.</div><div><br /></div><div>Pulse valve upgrades continue to see record growth as the news becomes more widely shared. The global roofing company has continued its corporate initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and the individual plants see the MAC Pulse Valve as a great way to accomplish that. </div><div><br /></div><div>One by one, companies are following suit; taking real steps toward protecting their employees, the environment, and our planet. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-77173350801736926362023-06-21T12:38:00.008-07:002024-01-10T13:34:56.551-08:00Saving lives: robotic end-of-arm-tooling picks and places frozen containers of human plasma<h1 style="text-align: left;">FPE Automation Receives Recognition for Highly Specialized Application in the Biotech Sector</h1>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span> <div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> Steve Moore received recognition in an industry insider partner newsletter this month for a unique and special application. One that saves lives. </div><div><br /></div><div>Plasma is the liquid component of your blood that contributes to 55% of your blood’s total volume. Plasma is necessary to help your body recover from injury, distribute nutrients, remove waste and prevent infection, while moving throughout your circulatory system.*</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdR9goHDAOmA_0ACjr9aE9UFn2C4x2Z7QGtVy3-C4yG1u1SFFYjqFjsz2mnmJzM_6pCxthl9i82RAJzHgPJAkiMEs6pH8qcnw3X461LQqtW9d8OLiPFM-SaEnrPRVzg99ZKAABFgDFU4BrTuiRddvlJbHibcpe-gGxPRWP7n49RL6dDIGo9hLS820x_ps/s960/image8277%5B1%5D.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 2em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="684" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdR9goHDAOmA_0ACjr9aE9UFn2C4x2Z7QGtVy3-C4yG1u1SFFYjqFjsz2mnmJzM_6pCxthl9i82RAJzHgPJAkiMEs6pH8qcnw3X461LQqtW9d8OLiPFM-SaEnrPRVzg99ZKAABFgDFU4BrTuiRddvlJbHibcpe-gGxPRWP7n49RL6dDIGo9hLS820x_ps/s320/image8277%5B1%5D.png" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Plasma saves lives. Robotics help to<br />process it so that patients in need can receive<br />it. Pictured: FPE Automation's Steve Moore<br />and his daughter.</span></td></tr></tbody></table>I work in automation, and this was most definitely outside my wheelhouse. So, I phoned a friend. </div><div><br /></div><div>Nancy Milewski, my knowledgeable and experienced RN friend, was willing to give me a basic understanding of plasma. "It carries all kinds of things; nutrients, proteins, enzymes, all over our bodies. Our blood cells and platelets are held together by plasma. We need it to survive."</div><div><br /></div><div>Many of us are fortunate enough to rarely (or, in my case, pretty much never) think about plasma. For those with autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiencies, blood disorders, liver failure, severe infections, serious burns, or even some undergoing cancer treatment, plasma transfusions are a critical part of their medical care.</div><div><br /></div><div>You have probably heard of plasma donations. Our bodies carry plasma, but who and what carries the plasma that we donate to others?</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a look at what happens behind-the-scenes, after a donor leaves the plasma center. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once the plasma is collected, it is frozen. Freezing extends the life of the plasma and protects it from bacteria. From there, logistics come into play. While most of us in manufacturing have some knowledge of what happens next, it's not difficult to guess that plasma would have a highly specialized distribution channel. </div><div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPY1dbwpD5Mq3SnF_N0CRZmNNNumWa8uk11HE-Ozr0CJNGsIRC2Sz6CNu3ELR6wVUO4iUrPzBLD6P2cNBcbORU_sy6CTHK4gJ2jsPRJBs9s9xHUZ1vGrk0ic0MpRn2OXy7tQTGC2G6JMZf0xK_yz2LRNlkWIfYuki8RjwlXif5RmMwtAZCh7SJFCEbBwM/s945/Frozen-Plasma.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 2em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="945" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPY1dbwpD5Mq3SnF_N0CRZmNNNumWa8uk11HE-Ozr0CJNGsIRC2Sz6CNu3ELR6wVUO4iUrPzBLD6P2cNBcbORU_sy6CTHK4gJ2jsPRJBs9s9xHUZ1vGrk0ic0MpRn2OXy7tQTGC2G6JMZf0xK_yz2LRNlkWIfYuki8RjwlXif5RmMwtAZCh7SJFCEbBwM/s320/Frozen-Plasma.png" width="320" /></a><br /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Frozen plasma in bags. Image courtesy of Medicoinfo.<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">A Highly Specialized Distribution Channel</h1><div>This is, quite often, where <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> enters the picture. Applications that are not considered "cookie-cutter" can sometimes take months, or even years, to cycle through the research and development, proof-of-concept, testing and engineering phases. That's particularly true when FDA regulations come into play. It's <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> specialty to deliver innovative solutions in a timely manner. Locally based, with experienced engineers on staff, and the right partners, we're simply able to be more responsive. </div><div><br /></div><h1 style="text-align: left;">From Plasma Donor to Recipient</h1><div>To lend a hand in engineering this important process, <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> partnered with <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD Inc.'s</a> custom team. Both companies can deliver custom products with speed and expertise that others simply can't match.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're in a similar situation, the <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD</a> ML team is the ideal group to work with. I spoke to <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> Steve Moore, the lead on this project. "This application is a great example of how versatile <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD's</a> Unlimited group really is," he told me. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>Robotic end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) was needed to grip the plasma bags without damaging them, and transport them to the next stage of distribution. </div><div><br /></div></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsf03jBRTTmA4sDwjtwSiu1o6fqzKTR7lvItX-EaTSMba4EbYtyHUtvrqmSDCzhdl8ua3SoV-Nqn-T2NDy98y41OUvMzJMf9VsSHx-FeGHN6tqhj_9M9NNq8eWmPJfaO_zhOf8mmjPeykwi9TD4Lmp7_QABSpkKTk3qp6iCWO1oPx3oxK42MGs23VwQM8/s2288/phd-ml-custom-solution-eoat-gripper.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 2em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1460" data-original-width="2288" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsf03jBRTTmA4sDwjtwSiu1o6fqzKTR7lvItX-EaTSMba4EbYtyHUtvrqmSDCzhdl8ua3SoV-Nqn-T2NDy98y41OUvMzJMf9VsSHx-FeGHN6tqhj_9M9NNq8eWmPJfaO_zhOf8mmjPeykwi9TD4Lmp7_QABSpkKTk3qp6iCWO1oPx3oxK42MGs23VwQM8/s320/phd-ml-custom-solution-eoat-gripper.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">End-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) is attached to robot arms to lift <br />and safely transport frozen plasma without damaging it.</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Together, <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> and <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD Inc.</a> met with the customer and determined their requirements. They knew 316L (low carbon) stainless steel would need to be utilized. They discussed the rest, and narrowed it down to Ertalyte® thermoplastic PET-P vs. Delrin. Eventually, Moore explained, "Eyrtalyte was chosen over Delrin because of its low water absorption properties and resistance to wash-down chemicals used in pharmaceutical facilities."<div><br /><div><div> "We went through a few revisions of this custom 3-jaw gripper before we settled on this one," Moore added, "This current version has been utilized successfully for three years now, and has transported hundreds of thousands of life-saving plasma bags." </div><div><br /></div><div>As a result, several robotic cells work around-the-clock to keep the plasma moving to their final goal: the human patient. Steve concluded with one final thought; "<a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD</a> and I have worked with the customer over the years to provide a truly tailored product bespoke to their needs."</div><div><div><div><div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: Cleveland Clinic</span></div></div></div></div></div></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-7317935019986542122023-06-14T15:12:00.007-07:002024-01-10T13:35:13.272-08:00Don't just go from adequate to better. Smart manufacturers aim for exceptional.<img src="https://www.fpeautomation.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/phd-ECV.png" style="display: none;" /><h1 style="text-align: left;">When Equipment Manufacturers Improve Product Quality, Everyone is a Winner </h1>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><p>Our story begins with an Illinois-based manufacturer of packaging equipment. </p><p>Scott Peters, Territory Sales Manager for <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD Inc.</a>, described the application this way, "An 'up-packer' is located at the ginning press at a cotton gin and straps cotton."</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiaJ1ltV8m-B_PLgBhLqBXi4hBGhwJ80MslGqwDCE-r2jgP59NdgIsjPc6dBuQexxobyPm3eyxrukfaykKMiJbr9rIT0692_0krfpNIwqVnM6Iya1hokc80FvNPFBOydaQigyxGr-U2tgnj9e484J-8FD8SULt4PdZFNYuQvlzUJ9b9oc5bRuY8-aB/s440/cotton-up-packer.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="440" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiaJ1ltV8m-B_PLgBhLqBXi4hBGhwJ80MslGqwDCE-r2jgP59NdgIsjPc6dBuQexxobyPm3eyxrukfaykKMiJbr9rIT0692_0krfpNIwqVnM6Iya1hokc80FvNPFBOydaQigyxGr-U2tgnj9e484J-8FD8SULt4PdZFNYuQvlzUJ9b9oc5bRuY8-aB/w200-h200/cotton-up-packer.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A cotton up-packing strapping system binds <br />heavy bales.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p>For decades, the unpacking portion of their process utilized large-bore tie-rod cylinders to open and close the strapping equipment. It worked. "If it ain't broke...", some would say. </p><p>Smart manufacturers know better. </p><p>Partnering with <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> to optimize their processes had really paid off for this company several times before. While it was an adequate solution, the engineers felt that cycle time and actuator life could be improved. </p><p>They approached <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> Scott Massie, seeking a solution. <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> assembled a team that included application engineers at <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD Inc.</a> Initially, based on sizing and specifications alone, it looked like the ECV50 electric actuator would be a good fit. Overworked, busy R&D engineers, left to their own devices, might have moved forward with that solution. They would not have been wrong. All ECV cylinders are designed for high performance with superior speeds, thrusts, and travel lengths. It would have worked better than their legacy tie-rod cylinders. </p><p>The engineers talked it over with Massie and Peters. "When the sizing was complete, the ECV50 passed but didn't quite give the extra life span they wanted, and additional tooling had to be made to mount into their equipment," Peters said. </p><p>The engineers developed a new concept, a design that included a trunnion mounting built into the head and a custom-sized male rod thread with clevis using a Teknic motor and a Goizper brake. They called it the ECV80. </p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtW-p3UZdfRlQWq-YiaVkagw8nWjz-3vJaCU-DboYgDeR9XyZrBo1qwqKmqHU5ikSbv8bcWYpggMW2vgLW2Z61ishdBSwMtch_2jZDGO3jY5iDLvQiSvnRF0L9LoRQ07k8DFXqDI6G3auK6CSNFzsDfeJBJhBWZ9Pge0gAVt5NrEdBUIvlPmWNwX7/s3488/scott-phd-dom.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 2em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3488" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtW-p3UZdfRlQWq-YiaVkagw8nWjz-3vJaCU-DboYgDeR9XyZrBo1qwqKmqHU5ikSbv8bcWYpggMW2vgLW2Z61ishdBSwMtch_2jZDGO3jY5iDLvQiSvnRF0L9LoRQ07k8DFXqDI6G3auK6CSNFzsDfeJBJhBWZ9Pge0gAVt5NrEdBUIvlPmWNwX7/s320/scott-phd-dom.png" width="275" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">FPE Automation's Scott Massie won the PHD Partner of the Month <br />award for this innovative application. Here, he holds a much smaller <br />ECV electric cylinder than the one featured in this article.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="text-align: left;">Good vs. Great</h2><p>This particular manufacturer could have settled for the status quo and continued to use the old tie-rod cylinders. Or, they could have done well by specifying the ECV50. The one they have on test has well over 500,000 cycles so far, not bad at all. </p><p>Instead, they aimed higher. As the ECV80 enters the field-testing phase, we will keep you updated. So far, initial tests have been extraordinary.</p><p>Massie added, "The ECV50 is already giving them more life than they expected. The ECV80 is rated to an estimated 6 million cycles and is more of a drop-in solution, so it has the potential of being even better." </p><p>So successful, in fact, that Massie received the <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD Inc.</a> Partner of the Month award for this project. When the announcement was made of the win, John Ross, Vice President of North America Sales for <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD Inc.</a>, thanked him for his "diligence in leading the efforts to create the solution required for this demanding application."</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Award-winning Solutions</h2><p><a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> unique expertise regularly helps companies do even better. Ideas that are a step above the ordinary are just one aspect of what makes <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> great. </p><p>As for this manufacturer, in addition to being able to produce a better product, the next step is to upgrade another cotton machine, called the "down-packer," with this electric actuator.</p><p><br /></p>
Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-2683894753636009762023-06-07T09:25:00.003-07:002024-01-10T13:35:26.352-08:00Zebra’s Deep-Learning OCR enables fast, accurate reads with no training required.<table bgcolor="#ffffff" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-content-body" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" bgcolor="#29478f" style="background-color: #29478f; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="left" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-left" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; float: left;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-p20b" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 285px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 20px;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; height: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td style="background: unset; border-bottom: 0px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); height: 1px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 245px;"></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 5px 20px 15px 30px;"><h1 style="color: white; font-size: 26px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 31px; margin: 0px;"><b>This New OCR Tool Captures Text Without Training</b></h1></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="right" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-right" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; float: right;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 305px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #2cb543; font-size: 14px; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank"><img class="adapt-img" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPjKY-dxI06E2OE7gEMo2eGkpfAKwFhGcgeQ39SN_0bAOykWqGpC6u_OPnXrxOpnaN2htBwTI6DoP4EiwVO4nW-a-22-45UfQKvmo6_m-qFdEKE6o0RlgBg8isgiIYeOsuf8d3ddHmEhfl4FkSeSpHOxiULce5DjpU5lQbR6BuB93fc6aDiOQClvno/s400/aurora_ocr_deep_learning_559838580400x266.jpg" style="border: 0px; display: block; outline: none; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Email Header Graphic" width="305" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 20px 25px 0px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 550px;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 25px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">One of the biggest challenges with setting up optical character recognition (OCR) is having to train your machine vision cameras or fixed scanning devices to get the job done right. Many OCR applications make this harder because they’re not good at capturing hard-to-read or low-contrast characters, especially against confusing backgrounds.</p><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;"><br /></p><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Thankfully, there’s a great new OCR tool from Zebra Technologies that automatically extracts text and information from images without font or text training. It provides reliable and accurate reads, even when you’re dealing with extremely difficult characters, low contrast, or tough backgrounds.</p></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h2 style="color: #29478f; font-size: 20px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px;"><b>Zebra Deep-Learning OCR</b></h2></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 20px 25px 25px;"><table align="left" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-left" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; float: left;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" class="es-m-p0r es-m-p20b" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 121px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px;"><a href="https://fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #2cb543; font-size: 14px; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="text-icon" height="61" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-az814ZfdQebfYX4VT-6jaFjajaxd2f_ANRfYcv-MDF1GUNie8R2KbT5obF_6C2gRLbNFTvolbLd3U0rFq37BAu8lWYEi9zrpdI0AvJsapnaWWilV9FYYJ50CBlfRj4WcwzIbRZ7L0Tg7V-hieyOODAv-5EaHMcdMOQx6j5OScNMpT1iC4tR7D7nU/s196/fpeicons01.jpg" style="border: 0px; display: block; outline: none; text-decoration-line: none;" title="text-icon" width="61" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 15px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;"><strong>No Text or Font Training</strong></p></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 10px 0px 0px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Get reliable and accurate reads without training.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td><td class="es-hidden" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 20px;"></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="left" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-left" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; float: left;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" class="es-m-p20b" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 123px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px;"><a href="https://fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #2cb543; font-size: 14px; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="ocr-icon" height="61" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmEq2JRkz7yq9vx9PxxV7qZrzT7hyjqQHuUkYVqpKUcTd7so09rneNdvFkdPb7DB0K6_EakY77_ssBF0K66DrgtEb7GByy92U9DBXowZ8ePFbY91Urc_2g95VEXiqSoWqXo_VdqQH7tTQIZtSFjWx7f6qpCKX9az7OYNESi-DrO-ojCPS161R0FU2Z/s196/fpeicons02.jpg" style="border: 0px; display: block; outline: none; text-decoration-line: none;" title="ocr-icon" width="61" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 15px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;"><strong>OCR for the Toughest Jobs</strong></p></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 10px 0px 0px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Read low-contrast characters against confusing backgrounds.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td><td class="es-hidden" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 20px;"></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="left" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-left" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; float: left;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" class="es-m-p20b" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 123px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px;"><a href="https://fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #2cb543; font-size: 14px; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="simple-icon" height="61" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCnC_wDFTAXO83UfZA94luvd8wAkEaFmhTL1HzuzfoPBlUokfKpg4vB94VmQGz-EoaPSr1ZxzuetDs86ptH2bH0csRIZeX9q0vC4_WJboShVit3nJzXvBTXAYM7O_WpYXY23McBKvhvF9xUUj_0jCTcjdU8TfiKP9opt_I8rozeQs97jMbA0Z5Ll5M/s196/fpeicons03.jp" style="border: 0px; display: block; outline: none; text-decoration-line: none;" title="simple-icon" width="61" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 15px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;"><strong>Amazingly Simple</strong></p></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 10px 0px 0px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Extract info as easily as drawing a box around an image.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="right" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-right" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; float: right;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 123px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px;"><a href="https://fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #2cb543; font-size: 14px; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="deep-learning-icon" height="61" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_C1HO74lRUNVbOLanmx8nZiEtxpdjs7xt5WQv9puEQV5J1x-yY0UAoPKUidIPAW0OWpbwxLf0ZSaGF3osAuPOwtNVD6zvbnvSUVSR8HMiGyxLE4BB8jl8H8iYeKWArI7k83hRJbV1ptaGLSt86HXXPKd2q5YvF7B1JrPHeAuCHTZ151fG96iTKxI/s196/fpeicons04.jpg" style="border: 0px; display: block; outline: none; text-decoration-line: none;" title="deep-learning-icon" width="61" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 15px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;"><strong>Deep-Learning Automation</strong></p></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-txt-c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 10px 0px 0px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Let the software do the work with drag-and-drop simplicity.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-content-body" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 10px 25px 0px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 550px;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 5px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Zebra’s new Deep-Learning OCR is part of Zebra’s Aurora software and its unified hardware platform for machine vision and fixed scanning. This platform and software provide next-generation tools that allow you to quickly and easily set up highly accurate text recognition and character reading in a fraction of the time that’s required with other solutions. In fact, even a novice user can get an OCR job up and running in as little as a few minutes.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px 20px 0px 25px;"><table align="left" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-left" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; float: left;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" class="es-m-p20b" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 194px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" class="es-m-txt-c" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://fpesales.com/download/fpe-automation-zebra-aurora-deep-learning-ocr.pdf" style="color: #2cb543; font-size: 14px; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="brochure-cover" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFAhOgG6Doi9y5GVzLmzlA3stc4butGWdUMxYDCnK72tdN8toO4rnXnEwa5lLJkf_MN6_HbVrEFxa9Cqnn-1ezwgcUpW-enjI2XCBbg-zhlaRoe5TOOxbJ_nk3StBsyW02XxmJn9rwmawbtH5AZfQQnyqAYH0FlkmLn8iEcM0nXq7HnfDjWnDLXeG/s365/brochurecover.jpg" style="border: 0px; display: block; outline: none; text-decoration-line: none;" title="brochure-cover" width="162" /></a></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" class="es-m-txt-c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 25px 0px 0px;"><span class="es-button-border" style="background: rgb(41, 71, 143); border-color: rgb(44, 181, 67); border-radius: 0px; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; display: inline-block; width: auto;"><a class="es-button" href="https://fpesales.com/download/fpe-automation-zebra-aurora-deep-learning-ocr.pdf" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-color: rgb(41, 71, 143); border-radius: 0px; color: white; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19px; padding: 10px 20px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: none; width: auto;" target="_blank">View OCR Brochure</a></span></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="right" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="es-right" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; float: right;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 341px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 0px 0px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Zebra’s Aurora software and its revolutionary machine vision and fixed scanning platform are designed from the ground up to be as simple and easy to use as possible while providing powerful tools to automate everything from visual inspections to barcode label checks, routing, sorting and assembly checks.</p><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;"><br /></p><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Over the past few months, our team at FPE Automation has been helping many companies implement Zebra’s machine vision and fixed scanning technology, and we’ve seen firsthand what a huge difference Zebra’s tools make.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 20px 25px 0px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 550px;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 25px;"><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Zebra’s new Deep-Learning OCR is part of Zebra’s Aurora software and its unified hardware platform for machine vision and fixed scanning. This platform and software provide next-generation tools that allow you to quickly and easily set up highly accurate text recognition and character reading in a fraction of the time that’s required with other solutions. In fact, even a novice user can get an OCR job up and running in as little as a few minutes.</p><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;"><br /></p><p style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">To learn more about this faster and simpler way to set up industrial automation, download our <a href="https://fpesales.com/download/fpe-automation-zebra-aurora-deep-learning-ocr.pdf" style="color: #1056ec; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank">Deep-Learning OCR brochure</a> now. Then <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/contact" target="_blank">contact us</a> to schedule a demo and get answers to your questions.</p></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span class="es-button-border" style="background: rgb(41, 71, 143); border-color: rgb(44, 181, 67); border-radius: 0px; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; display: inline-block; width: auto;"><a class="es-button" href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/zebra" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-color: rgb(41, 71, 143); border-radius: 0px; color: white; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19px; padding: 10px 20px; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: none; width: auto;" target="_blank">Explore Zebra Automation</a></span></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 20px;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; height: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td style="background: unset; border-bottom: 0px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); height: 1px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 510px;"></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="left" bgcolor="#aeb7c1" style="background-color: #aeb7c1; margin: 0px; padding: 20px 20px 0px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 560px;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="border-collapse: collapse;"><td align="center" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 20px;"><p style="color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Zebra Deep-Learning OCR is Available at FPE Automation, Inc.</strong></span><br /><a href="https://fpeautomation.com/" style="color: #1056ec; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank">fpeautomation.com</a><br /><a href="mailto:fpeinfo@fpeautomation.com" style="color: #1056ec; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank">fpeinfo@fpeautomation.com</a><br /><a href="tel:847-364-7455" style="color: #1056ec; text-size-adjust: none;" target="_blank">847-364-7455</a></p><p style="color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: none;">Content provided by Zebra Technologies, Inc.<br /></p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-82116063736421548182023-06-02T12:25:00.007-07:002024-01-10T13:35:43.326-08:00A manufacturing engineering balancing act - cutting costs while maintaining quality <h1 style="text-align: left;">Major Pet Food Manufacturer Swaps Out Legacy Cylinder for PHD-CRS, Resulting in a Longer Lasting, Better Performing and Lower Cost Upgrade</h1><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Y-43d9H_s5YbdG9V3VSWl3Gz52xRxKwq6i2HlveNuymklWHHWJ9YkzKomdtHDus1X1G2CfGsRXC9Eqck8iy3Qwk7FI4rUgie8xacdbqkfXVfqOrx9QgCwaPfqrDLBvSMPfjLIw2_KmB1UC5pZzlPUmGbPoKrmJT3g4R64YaVAw2b6M8stcB_hnKG/s640/Application-Photo-PHD-ML.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 2.5em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Y-43d9H_s5YbdG9V3VSWl3Gz52xRxKwq6i2HlveNuymklWHHWJ9YkzKomdtHDus1X1G2CfGsRXC9Eqck8iy3Qwk7FI4rUgie8xacdbqkfXVfqOrx9QgCwaPfqrDLBvSMPfjLIw2_KmB1UC5pZzlPUmGbPoKrmJT3g4R64YaVAw2b6M8stcB_hnKG/s320/Application-Photo-PHD-ML.png" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-size: x-small;">PHD cylinders replaced more expensive legacy <br />cylinders. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Not only were they more cost-effective, <br />they also lasted longer and worked better.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;">. </span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #29458e;">"This replacement was actually better and longer lasting than the original cylinder and the lower cost was a big plus also."</span></i></h2><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span></p><p>There is a lot at stake when you're mass-producing a commodity like pet food. This Missouri-based manufacturer has been expanding recently to keep up with unprecedented demand. </p><p>That means that all of the familiar pain points we all experience in manufacturing are magnified for them. </p><p>The good news? New approaches are helping plant engineers find innovative ways to optimize their facility's performance. </p><p>I caught up with the parts manager at this particular plant. He asked that we just call him "Joe" at the request of his employer. He was happy to share his story. </p><p>"We were looking for a cylinder that would be more cost-effective," Joe said. "to seal poly bags in our baggers. The temperatures are very high in this area."</p><p>The baggers Joe refers to are high-speed Thiele OmniStar automatic bag filling machines. On average, the facility produces 700 tons of pet food per 24-hour period, using two baggers. Filled pet food bags weigh between 8-15 pounds. Each bagger has eight cylinders, one or more cylinders would need to be replaced every 2-week period. The sealing bars use heat for their adhesive, which results in a high-temperature environment. The bag filling machines operate 24/7.</p><p>Not knowing where to start, Joe reached out to his local contact at FPE Automation and was put in touch with Steve Carrera, FPE Automation's area specialist. Because the cylinder specifications were not readily available, some research was required. Carrera pulled in a team from PHD Inc., including PHD's Scott Peters and Engineer specialist Travis Haynes. </p><p>"With Steve's help we were able to accomplish this," Joe told me, referring to Carrera. "<a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc" rel="noopener" target="_blank">PHD</a> reverse-engineered our original cylinder and came up with a replacement".</p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqfYNqoWLWPaw8ImOx1lGLHyOuiB6MJkJx5JbOMcIBP4vzqW_h3IeIOMu9wQVw3vQ5Vr3mMuvhp7zRCu1qB-WqYoCH1HZwwwXPvQUWpucz0iFJPrziDXf0iFhf64CscihbxjlYnuzHrNiSg6sEkCCo5ncgIz_wt11VJHwuIlC7Cnx7JYNeeL1YIgi/s640/phd-ml-engineering.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: 2.5em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqfYNqoWLWPaw8ImOx1lGLHyOuiB6MJkJx5JbOMcIBP4vzqW_h3IeIOMu9wQVw3vQ5Vr3mMuvhp7zRCu1qB-WqYoCH1HZwwwXPvQUWpucz0iFJPrziDXf0iFhf64CscihbxjlYnuzHrNiSg6sEkCCo5ncgIz_wt11VJHwuIlC7Cnx7JYNeeL1YIgi/w200-h150/phd-ml-engineering.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>The design process</b>: finding a suitable cylinder <br />replacement for a high-temp, rugged <br />production environment. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p>PHD has an advanced, 7-step design process, and a talented Application Assistance team that stepped in at this point. The result? A PHD cylinder that was nearly identical in size. </p><p>Dimensions, however, were one of the only aspects the newly-specified unit had in common with the legacy one. The PHD cylinder is engineered to last. It features a self-lubricating flouroelastomer piston seal for long cylinder life. Its robust actuator design is an industry field-proven solution. Put simply, it performed better. The plant contact, Joe, immediately noticed. </p><p>"This replacement was actually better and longer lasting than the original cylinder and the lower cost was a big plus also," he told me. </p> To find out why, I reached out to Scott Peters at PHD. <div><br /></div><div>"We took the worn, underperforming cylinder apart and determined unusual wear points. It was clear that the original cylinder piston was cocking in the cylinder bore and wearing that surface, which in turn causes piston seal wear and leakage then piston rod support bearing is affected negatively."</div><div><br /></div><div>Peters explained, "All this wear equals drag which slows the cylinder. Our engineers recommended a wider piston for this application. This wider piston created a larger bearing surface and holds the piston rod to run true parallel to the cylinder bore. Longer life is the result. Greater uptime and less repairs are also achieved. We also offer repair kits for this cylinder. That can further decrease the cost to the customer because the customer has the option to rebuild it themselves or send it back to <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc" rel="noopener" target="_blank">PHD</a> for breakdown analysis and refurbishment."<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZKhCBwW7ehyybC_uQhrcYvMQtx2zyDNxZNVKtq0EtXF9zwqBEd4XOZKvZgWusSxf7G4TXh8CLpVWrjdacQsfFdVWJJLDFimmmLirwkSWhjx-AP4RvYu7xk7Qs3F21D43orVp8SVrEJICshlZSDvv14t8PfP2C1qKC_1eWjSGbANhdcgHWVQ05IDi/s1312/Sealing.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="644" data-original-width="1312" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZKhCBwW7ehyybC_uQhrcYvMQtx2zyDNxZNVKtq0EtXF9zwqBEd4XOZKvZgWusSxf7G4TXh8CLpVWrjdacQsfFdVWJJLDFimmmLirwkSWhjx-AP4RvYu7xk7Qs3F21D43orVp8SVrEJICshlZSDvv14t8PfP2C1qKC_1eWjSGbANhdcgHWVQ05IDi/w400-h196/Sealing.JPG" width="475" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">New and improved: The cylinders function better, last longer and cost less.</span></td></tr></tbody></table>After the installation, the resulting improvements prompted this manufacturer to duplicate this engineering in their other plants. <br /><p>As for Joe, he concluded with, "I hope my input helps others. We are pleased with this product."</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-71080615685711668132023-05-16T10:49:00.005-07:002024-01-10T13:36:16.090-08:00WATCH: We put a robot with vision in a crowded room, with no special lighting or guarding. Here's what happened. <h1 style="text-align: left;">Next-Gen Automation Doesn't Require Guarding or Special Lighting</h1>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><div>Those familiar with 4D bin picking and robotic guidance will immediately recognize that the above statement is groundbreaking. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;">The ultimate proof of concept just took place at the Melton Machine & Control open house in Washington, Missouri. Are you a manufacturer located in the Midwest? If so, here's why that matters. </h3><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7udgyBtNht4" width="475" youtube-src-id="7udgyBtNht4"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Watch as FPE Automation's Kurt Vaeth unsuccessfully tries to "trick" the robot into failing to perform its task. I reached him by phone a few days after the open house. "I was moving the part to show that it captures the image each time, and it can still follow the line or path for the weld." Vaeth explained, "You can set parts in front of it, and it can still detect where the weld needs to be. You don't need to have fixed coordinates. It can pull the coordinates and get the robot to do exactly what needs to be done."</div><div><br /></div><div>Universal Robots are collaborative. That means they operate safely alongside humans with no guarding required in most applications.</div><div><br /></div><div>Apera AI guides the robot using 4D vision technology. In a crowded room, with lighting conditions constantly changing, this type of accuracy was previously unheard of. </div><div><br /></div><div>Apera's Cliff Tsugawa put it this way, "We quickly identify the steel angle, parts position/orientation and guide start/path under ambient lighting. This can be done without vision expertise, and is flexible/scalable for more fields of view and parts/assemblies."</div><div><br /></div><div>Also included: footage of our other demos and Melton Machine & Control's turnkey CoboWeld system. All examples of how you can leverage vision and robotics to streamline your operations and do more with less.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you missed the open house, and would like to learn more, or request a demo, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/contact/" target="_blank">reach out to FPE Automation</a>. Whether you're a welder, or have an entirely different idea of how to leverage robotics and vision in your manufacturing process, we are happy to help. </div></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-72598620447428544532023-04-17T16:51:00.002-07:002024-01-10T13:36:30.471-08:00FPE Automation's unparalleled expertise pays off: we're the winners of Piab's top industry award for 2023<h1 style="text-align: left;">FPE Automation Wins the Piab Diamond Award</h1>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQPy8vQTZOWSG4VukwfElg3vKbQTFR4nlC4VvI4eLdfjFyJdgjR32EimlqEJB4EPQvquG_dJ-YdufVrHWalYsENmwrlXjGdzL0l9H8SS2EaYtX8Ag557kj6xDYe8649be9yYlCEo5xogjp3-t7h-Fy3DcXzOw-GwNYG6ibdl7NfNAGUICfwjr3taw/s1139/FPE-wins-piab-diamond-award-2023.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="657" data-original-width="1139" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQPy8vQTZOWSG4VukwfElg3vKbQTFR4nlC4VvI4eLdfjFyJdgjR32EimlqEJB4EPQvquG_dJ-YdufVrHWalYsENmwrlXjGdzL0l9H8SS2EaYtX8Ag557kj6xDYe8649be9yYlCEo5xogjp3-t7h-Fy3DcXzOw-GwNYG6ibdl7NfNAGUICfwjr3taw/w640-h370/FPE-wins-piab-diamond-award-2023.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">L to R: Ron Porinsky, District Manager, Piab; Scott Massie, Sales Manager, FPE Automation; Joey Bardos, President, FPE Automation; Andy Button, Sales Manager, FPE Automation Sunset Hills, MO; Hernando Emiliani Area Sales Manager; Piab, Jomy Vadakumpadam, VP of Sales, FPE Automation</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The 60th anniversary is symbolized by a diamond. As <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> celebrates its 60th year in 2023, it is particularly fitting that the company would receive the diamond award from <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a> this year.</p><p>This is <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab's</a> top award. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> is very proud to have received it an unprecedented 4 times. <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a> has stated that partners receiving this award are in an elite category. </p><p><a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a> has been a key partner for <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> for several decades. They are a global manufacturer of vacuum products and cups based in Sweden. Here in the Midwest, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> has worked with manufacturers that have relied on <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a> quality for years, in situations where a precisely-engineered vacuum grip was vital. </p><p>Many companies would have been content to ride on that considerable success. Not <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a>. They had a vision. For several years, in addition to expanding their vacuum lines and acquiring relevant companion companies, <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a> has been ahead of the curve in adapting to a shift in automation toward an increase in robotics. As a result, they have developed several UR+ certified robotic end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) solutions that are widely recognized to be some of industry's best and most innovative.</p><p>As <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a> innovated and grew, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> did so as well. As an expert in both collaborative and high-speed industrial robotics, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> would need the right EOAT to do the job. As <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> team worked on robotic applications, <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a> continued to deliver innovative solutions to our engineers. </p><p>This, along with <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> continued success in the growing robotics sector, enabled them to partner with an entirely new group of manufacturers; companies moving in the direction of more automation. The EOAT chosen is always crucial to the success of any robotic cell, and often <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a> has a solution that can do the job accurately and consistently. They have solutions, like the <a href="https://www.piab.com/suction-cups-and-soft-grippers/soft-grippers/pisoftgrip-vacuum-driven-soft-gripper-/pisoftgrip-/" target="_blank">piSOFTGRIP</a>® vacuum-driven soft gripper pictured here, that can handle the trickiest of applications. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0f0RkTF4zJnFm54G46OYytJd-7QQ-5guAH8OBHvp8xizZlZzZ5JqXY6K9v9LiPGRCZljY8urPM9bPfjskK3MFa5gWso4f3sO1X6Phn1i5bTHvvBiIQaVxLPzqFT1iyPFeQV4OJP-rpJpzdwTsuMdfoYho_0_nB6T7zVb4ePrMbUWsdwRdPrOsSAIE/s478/pisoftgrip.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="478" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0f0RkTF4zJnFm54G46OYytJd-7QQ-5guAH8OBHvp8xizZlZzZ5JqXY6K9v9LiPGRCZljY8urPM9bPfjskK3MFa5gWso4f3sO1X6Phn1i5bTHvvBiIQaVxLPzqFT1iyPFeQV4OJP-rpJpzdwTsuMdfoYho_0_nB6T7zVb4ePrMbUWsdwRdPrOsSAIE/s320/pisoftgrip.png" width="320" /></a></div><p>Combine all of that with the high quality of <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Piab</a> products, plus excellent customer service and support, and you have the ideal recipe for customer satisfaction.</p><p>Still, success isn't created in a vacuum (pun intended). Products are only great if they make a difference. Our engineers helped to put the right <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a> product together with the right robot in the right environment to make optimal custom solutions that are game-changers for our customers. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> engineers believe in <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a>, and possess the technical skills to make their products work for our customers. </p><p>This was entirely a team effort. </p><p>We'd like to extend our sincere appreciation to the talented and dedicated <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> staff, <a href="https://fpeautomation.com/piab" target="_blank">Piab</a>, and of course, our customers. Without all of you, this continued success would not be possible.</p></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-26767268823672093642023-04-17T12:28:00.000-07:002024-01-10T13:36:51.122-08:00AMRs are the future in internal logistics, manufacturing and order fulfillment, and FPE Automation just won a top award from Mobile Industrial Robots<h1 style="text-align: left;">FPE Automation is Awarded Excellent Partner by Mobile Industrial Robots</h1>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLo4uUxPBHogI-mvN78voaegLnlMkqNxxyjGXtYj0jrhxwuFeOO0e1na0bHunnfRYqiX-lglN-zJKbZUBh-UGYaaLwHe6dmgity8EE4s-3FkFERQHVtN2r0rEuUXXziExY4KrlSKK4OyjJ73OX0ulGQbXY3loTe54qWyiyW6N-fnW6Z8F8vay5HzXV/s1850/award2023.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1850" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLo4uUxPBHogI-mvN78voaegLnlMkqNxxyjGXtYj0jrhxwuFeOO0e1na0bHunnfRYqiX-lglN-zJKbZUBh-UGYaaLwHe6dmgity8EE4s-3FkFERQHVtN2r0rEuUXXziExY4KrlSKK4OyjJ73OX0ulGQbXY3loTe54qWyiyW6N-fnW6Z8F8vay5HzXV/w640-h333/award2023.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">L to R: Joey Bardos, President, FPE Automation, John Duke, Solution Specialist, FPE Automation, Michal-Marie Tillotson, Area Sales Manager, Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR), Charlie Scales, FPE Automation's MiR Product Specialist, Jomy Vadakumpadam, VP of Sales, FPE Automation</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p>It was announced today that <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> received one of the highest honors given by <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mir/" target="_blank">Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR)</a>. The top partner award announcement comes after a year of major projects, as the trend continues for many manufacturers and logistics to leverage the advantages of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). Implementations included one by a Fortune 100 company that has a decades-long relationship with <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>. Other recent projects involved small businesses requiring one mobile robot, large companies requiring an entire fleet, and everything in between. </p><p>The award aligns with <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> commitment to AMR expertise. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> has a dedicated, in-house product team, led by Charles Scales (pictured, above), who assists with projects and implementation, as well as an entire engineering team as support staff. It also reflects the growing interest in AMRs across the board. </p><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYyMOroD2w2TizJULa8uc9ViifwUomeldRXbKuUuCR5iwBggEpxKmQZrypvNGQGTP6tDoV9ecYGhxVD6bWYQmXKEC-FGG-nyBkBmEHcMt9fHCnhaW4CRiZSRzvEkhqEXrsLFEFRsKNA6fp4IvBhHqzhEc51Ut1aT5zRVOkVyMT490uzSCgVj1jTQS/s6395/20191212_MIR_ICM03%20(3).jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4263" data-original-width="6395" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYyMOroD2w2TizJULa8uc9ViifwUomeldRXbKuUuCR5iwBggEpxKmQZrypvNGQGTP6tDoV9ecYGhxVD6bWYQmXKEC-FGG-nyBkBmEHcMt9fHCnhaW4CRiZSRzvEkhqEXrsLFEFRsKNA6fp4IvBhHqzhEc51Ut1aT5zRVOkVyMT490uzSCgVj1jTQS/s320/20191212_MIR_ICM03%20(3).jpg" width="320" /></a>Why Are More Companies Moving to an AMR-based Internal Model? </h2>You may have heard that there has been a large increase in demand for AMRs. There are numerous reasons. First, intelligent intralogistics have captured the attention of engineers and management globally because they increase worker safety and efficiency and decrease operating costs.<br /><br />That's not all. <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mir/" target="_blank">MiR</a> robots are collaborative, meaning they can work safely alongside humans. They're easy to program and deploy. <br /><br />Collaborative robots of every type insulate companies from rising labor costs and labor shortages. Even one AMR can produce significant ROI, when compared to the cost of forklift operators and other employees. <br /><br />Additionally, the flexibility of <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mir/" target="_blank">Mobile Industrial Robots</a> is attractive to both manufacturing and logistics companies. With a large ecosystem of companion modules available, a <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mir/" target="_blank">MiR</a> robot can instantly be customized to fit your specific needs. Whether it be a pallet system like the one pictured here, rollers, cages, cabinets, tow hooks, or any number of other add-ons, the AMRs can reliably and consistently perform any number of tasks, then return themselves to their charging station when idle. <div><br /></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GqbtLGGJursTTVnfNvtLMDxsHHMS6PGtchoawZ3Q6WjDgLd9vW654JlWVTnr8cgbwYL8axN9qF_2IFnMAzU5Pzwwcky5E1Q3vazfqgpeJjuOQyRRRP4b2oBN8SVZ6LlxrL5WtIf7lC_atuLzTKyD8Hctv36xElKGtUHwcpuT8rxE61ZATkeY4zrL/s3134/Partner%20Award%202023.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3134" data-original-width="2753" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GqbtLGGJursTTVnfNvtLMDxsHHMS6PGtchoawZ3Q6WjDgLd9vW654JlWVTnr8cgbwYL8axN9qF_2IFnMAzU5Pzwwcky5E1Q3vazfqgpeJjuOQyRRRP4b2oBN8SVZ6LlxrL5WtIf7lC_atuLzTKyD8Hctv36xElKGtUHwcpuT8rxE61ZATkeY4zrL/s320/Partner%20Award%202023.png" width="281" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How Does FPE Automation Factor Into The Migration Toward Mobile Industrial Robots?</h2></div><div><br /></div><div>What does it mean to a company like yours that <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> is an award-winning partner? </div><div><br /></div><div>While it's certainly true that industry trends are pointing in the direction of AMRs being the next big wave of collaborative robotics, not all partners will have the internal expertise to venture into this area of automation. </div><div><br /></div><div>Both financial investment and intellectual capital are required. In the case of the Fortune 100 company, a level of trust had already been established decades ago between this Illinois-based manufacturer and <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>. We have the expertise, the working demos, the product experts, and a strong, award-winning partnership with <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mir/" target="_blank">Mobile Industrial Robots</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Moving forward, it may not be a matter of if you seek ways to optimize your internal logistics but rather where you go to achieve that goal. We can help you get the job done. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p></div></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-28764168085241664182023-04-12T18:53:00.002-07:002024-01-10T13:39:01.989-08:00A partner you can trust: FPE Automation won multiple awards at the Kawasaki partner conference<h1 style="text-align: left;">Kawaski Robotics Awards FPE Automation With Two Separate, Distinct Honors</h1><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Wixom, Michigan<br />April 12, 2023</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: x-small;"><b>By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</b></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki Robotics</a><span style="color: black;"> hosted its annual partner conference this week, called Drive 2023. Hundreds of integrator partners were in attendance. <br /><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: small;"></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VIIKVTWw37beQ_Aw73CizbxNPY8B0xr3cZ6cjC-A2arE0DbzMfB9YZ0BwWTmjj1zHInzN_3QMScHGuCXNai3ejSTEefnnlTFzGchY6UUojIQY2gFA-rtftNUBhP0qYaXss-wwXbwoP8fjdr_WDr8EQKaSTO4JzyQ2zUkp_Is0E3ifVLTsr5PovYE/s3084/Kawasaki-Awards-FPE-Automation.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1776" data-original-width="3084" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VIIKVTWw37beQ_Aw73CizbxNPY8B0xr3cZ6cjC-A2arE0DbzMfB9YZ0BwWTmjj1zHInzN_3QMScHGuCXNai3ejSTEefnnlTFzGchY6UUojIQY2gFA-rtftNUBhP0qYaXss-wwXbwoP8fjdr_WDr8EQKaSTO4JzyQ2zUkp_Is0E3ifVLTsr5PovYE/w640-h368/Kawasaki-Awards-FPE-Automation.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">L to R: Paul Marcovecchio, Director - General Industries, Kawasaki Robotics, Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing/IT, FPE Automation, Joey Bardos,<br />President, FPE Automation, Zachary Thoma, Regional Sales Manager, Kawasaki Robotics, and Jomy Vadakumpadam, Vice President of Sales, FPE Automation</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: small;"></span></div><br /><div>Keynote speakers included <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki</a> top leadership, and presentations were made about exciting advancements in the world of industrial robotics and AI. Stay tuned for future blog articles on those topics. Everything <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki</a> does, they do with a commitment to quality, and this event was no exception. <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki's</a> Drive 2023 took place in a historic setting; the <a href="https://www.thehenryford.org/visit/henry-ford-museum/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb" target="_blank">Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Zgbwr4qp3yA1kj6Ua71clzdHwz3J74JmT9M0ii3e9JL4jdSwdjOBWdmycw_8502SoA8tY6iJ1m3z6uwu3bbQARbPaxIcj2T0COgmcW5RTjJvdCDHzWhgp4ZxyOqzU6RNzblTDlyhdp82giPFNziA_VFjZZsypiWOUjJtWGhF-bxwYU8QNVEVCWZr/s9276/Kawasaki-Trophies-FPE-Automation.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6528" data-original-width="9276" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Zgbwr4qp3yA1kj6Ua71clzdHwz3J74JmT9M0ii3e9JL4jdSwdjOBWdmycw_8502SoA8tY6iJ1m3z6uwu3bbQARbPaxIcj2T0COgmcW5RTjJvdCDHzWhgp4ZxyOqzU6RNzblTDlyhdp82giPFNziA_VFjZZsypiWOUjJtWGhF-bxwYU8QNVEVCWZr/s320/Kawasaki-Trophies-FPE-Automation.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> team was extremely honored to win the top award of the day, and particularly humbled to be the sole company to take home two trophies.</div><div><br /></div>Accolades like these take teamwork to achieve. At <a href="FPE Automation" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, we are aware that our entire staff, along with the strong support of the <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki Robotics</a> team, and our valued customers, all worked together to bring us to this point in time.<div><br /></div><div><a href="FPE Automation" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> and <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki Robotics</a> are the chosen partners of businesses in the region both large and small. We work closely with manufacturers and certified systems integrators. It's a sometimes challenging and ever-evolving endeavor. Together we're continuously producing successful implementations. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you'd like to have a conversation with us about automation, we encourage you to reach out. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>We would also like to extend our gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this success. </div><div><br /></div></div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-47872976617325215092023-03-20T12:01:00.005-07:002024-01-10T13:39:17.321-08:00A benefit 'trifecta': Energy-savings, safety and ROI<h1 style="text-align: left;">With an Overhauled Dust Collection System, They are Breathing Easier at CertainTeed</h1><p><span style="font-size: small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span></p><p>FPE Automation recently helped to reengineer a dust collection system at CertainTeed®, North America's leading brand of exterior and interior building products, as part of a corporate energy-saving incentive program. Naturally, they expected to reduce energy consumption and lower energy bills. What they didn't expect was a system that is safer, more cost-effective, and breaks down far less often. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SyxA-AHS3Nxgc4EQIyrYPHS4xp36WFCQO-z8Xrtfip8FIq8ZQatEYUTijk82QQm9LYGHbJRIp5dbFNPV86nW2ShVpRghBG9QgsT8H-dwYsCPYme7fvHSyfHirZ7pSfgV42jd7bRDdWIEZUPO2W57v0gds-o7QxLR77gjnq9dHxtcYOLuczlLqv6g/s4032/IMG_3281.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SyxA-AHS3Nxgc4EQIyrYPHS4xp36WFCQO-z8Xrtfip8FIq8ZQatEYUTijk82QQm9LYGHbJRIp5dbFNPV86nW2ShVpRghBG9QgsT8H-dwYsCPYme7fvHSyfHirZ7pSfgV42jd7bRDdWIEZUPO2W57v0gds-o7QxLR77gjnq9dHxtcYOLuczlLqv6g/s320/IMG_3281.heic" width="240" /></a></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">The "Pressure" Was On</h2><p>With the corporate energy-saving incentive in place, the plant engineer, Gary Hoelscher, knew he needed to find a solution right away. The timing couldn't have been better. FPE Automation's Cody Schmelzle, Solution Specialist, sent an email to Gary Hoelscher. Hoelscher responded immediately and invited him in to talk about a dust collection system overhaul.</p><p>When I reached out to <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/">FPE Automation's</a> in-house specialist, Steve Carrera, Applications Engineer, who was called in to work on the project alongside Cody Schmelzle, Automation Solution Specialist for <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/">FPE Automation</a>, the news had just been released that the pair had won an industry award for their success with this application. Carrera was happy to discuss what transpired at CertainTeed with me.</p><p>"The plant engineer, Gary Hoelscher, informed Cody and me that CertainTeed had an incentive for projects that helped the company save energy," Carrera told me. "Gary was willing to move forward but was not very familiar with the technology of the dust collectors since that part of the plant was handled by an engineer that was no longer with the company."</p><p>Carrera had heard that a similar upgrade had just taken place at one of the company's other locations in Florida. "I suggested that Gary get in contact with his counterpart at the sister plant to talk about what they had accomplished there."</p><p>While Hoelscher did his research, Carrera went to work on diagnostic tests. He used tools from Wixom, Michigan-based <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves/">MAC Valves</a> and <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/">FPE Automation</a> have to analyze the efficiency of dust collection systems. <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves/">MAC Valves</a> created and manufactures the world's only diaphragm-free pulse valve. Carrera thought it would be an excellent fit for this dust collection application. He also toured the Jonesburg, Missouri-based plant.[boc_spacing height="10px"]</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">"You could hear the audible leak."</h2><p>Carrera conducted a bleed-down test to determine the air loss for the dust collector. The test indicated that there was a drop in air pressure and that he had a leak of at least 1/8 inch. He found that the dust collector was problematic, with audible leaks and misfiring diaphragm valves. </p><p>Carrera then prepared a presumptive ROI for Hoelscher to present to management. Remember, the incentive was to reduce energy usage. There was enough compelling information about increased efficiency in the report to warrant management's immediate approval. The energy-saving upgrade was going to move forward. </p><p>This is where the story took a dramatic turn. Details began to emerge that indicated that energy savings would not be the only benefit of the upgrade.</p><p>Operations that produce dust as a byproduct of their processes rely on an industrial dust collection system to provide clean air to the workplace, ensure the health and safety of employees, and comply with EPA, OSHA and NFPA regulations. However, the dust collection system itself could be a source of danger if it isn’t properly equipped and maintained.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*</span></p><p>Most companies are aware of the fire hazard risks of an improperly constructed/maintained dust collection system. Explosion prevention is certainly the number one concern. Efficient valves are just a part of keeping your dust collection system safe. Increasing their efficiency in measurable ways can reduce the amount of buildup in your hopper. </p><p>Another aspect that isn't as often considered is maintenance safety. When inefficient valves break down, repairs are needed. Retired engineer and 35-year FPE Automation veteran Dan McCullough, once put it to me this way; "you don't want a worker on a ladder in the snow and ice because your diaphragm valves are breaking down". McCullough for his charmingly direct style, and he has a point. MAC Valves' patented technology is proven to break down exponentially less than legacy valves. When we hear that, we tend to focus on the performance benefits. However, there are safety benefits to that statement as well. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">MAC Valves Patented Technology</h2><p>MAC Valves obtained a patent for a unique design that features no internal diaphragm. The result is a robust valve that has been tested/proven to outperform legacy valves. Rubber diaphragms are susceptible to tearing and grow brittle and rigid over time. With MAC's diaphragm-free patented bonded spool technology, breakdowns are a rarity. </p><h2 style="text-align: left;">How do MAC Valves Compare to Legacy Valves? </h2><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj83TodOwugtFYHuI0fVUsygrLJcz9yTk6AMCzT1iFP0jBq-YjKPwmlvEMN8w0Dq2YGUfzGZY4wFbkZxgUN3Eo3egJPN0WPqXp0orzow4K3FXKYtHYYCTbc9lBaMeoiBcYdRoR4PI83aPpU9Z2pvQwHdIFhRUtiESg--GJhx-jb4nANutOORCgkuqzU/s4032/Hopper%20-%20Empty.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj83TodOwugtFYHuI0fVUsygrLJcz9yTk6AMCzT1iFP0jBq-YjKPwmlvEMN8w0Dq2YGUfzGZY4wFbkZxgUN3Eo3egJPN0WPqXp0orzow4K3FXKYtHYYCTbc9lBaMeoiBcYdRoR4PI83aPpU9Z2pvQwHdIFhRUtiESg--GJhx-jb4nANutOORCgkuqzU/w240-h320/Hopper%20-%20Empty.png" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">An empty hopper, at a different company, in an unrelated case: <br />The valves were running, and energy was being consumed,<br />but they were misfiring, so no airborne contaminants were being collected.</span><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Even when they're operating, diaphragm valves are far less efficient. Pictured here is a hopper not unlike the one at CertainTeed. In this live production environment, the old valves were running... and consuming energy. Yet, they were misfiring and not collecting any of the airborne contaminants required by <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 16px;">EPA, OSHA and NFPA. </span><p></p>You can see that the hopper is almost completely empty. <div><br /></div><div>The single change made to this dust collection system was the addition of MAC pulse valves (PV).</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6w4cIDqVQBJgnbIJEFsdhCg_-iw3w_VzWtUJyopnRvdD_4zLV8tkqYiFhXPf3BQ7Q7QSKaAK6ulqJvPljeSRSSuxr8YcaVfVi__WU_KpRUpyPVWsVHG1fbOrTb7rxZiVvdV_JjJOz48fC6sAjB5uPe5rVg4zfmoXyFbZYpiuKNKPU3RAX0fXen4X/s1052/Hopper%20-%20Full.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1052" data-original-width="750" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6w4cIDqVQBJgnbIJEFsdhCg_-iw3w_VzWtUJyopnRvdD_4zLV8tkqYiFhXPf3BQ7Q7QSKaAK6ulqJvPljeSRSSuxr8YcaVfVi__WU_KpRUpyPVWsVHG1fbOrTb7rxZiVvdV_JjJOz48fC6sAjB5uPe5rVg4zfmoXyFbZYpiuKNKPU3RAX0fXen4X/w152-h213/Hopper%20-%20Full.png" width="152" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">As soon as the system was started with the <br />new valves in place, it immediately began to <br />collect airborne contaminants at a rate it never <br />had in the past.</span></td></tr></tbody></table>Immediately, the airborne contaminants started to be removed from the plant<br />in amounts that far exceeded the efficiency the legacy system had, even when running smoothly. <br /><h2>What Does Field Test Data Show?</h2>[caption id="attachment_4446" align="alignleft" width="214"] As soon as the system was started with the new valves in place, it immediately began to collect airborne contaminants at a rate it never had in the past.[/caption]<p>Case study after case study has shown there is a 20-30% increased expenditure in energy costs to operate a diaphragm valve, versus a <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves/">MAC</a> pulse valve. </p><p>For additional data, I e-mailed Anthony Bonadio at <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves/">MAC Valves</a>. Bonadio is <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves/">MAC</a>'s resident expert in pulse valve technology. He resides in Michigan, but responded from Korea, where he is currently traveling on business. He replied, "<a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/mac-valves/">MAC</a> has developed a solution that replaces 60-year-old diaphragm pulse valve technology. It requires less maintenance, consumes less energy –it even extends filter life. And for most of our customers, the payback is less than a year."</p><div><div>CertainTeed's Gary Hoelscher tested ten MAC PV06 valves. They have 50-100 more, so this is a conversation that will go on for a while. The energy savings will keep adding up!</div><div></div><div>Carrera added, "He was delighted with the initial installation process and the willingness of the <a href="http://www.fpeautomation.com/">FPE Automation</a> team to walk him step by step from quote to installation."</div></div><div><br /></div><div><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">* Source: </span><a href="https://www.ishn.com/" style="font-size: x-small;" target="_blank">Industrial Safety & Hygeine News (ISHN)</a></p></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-74742192582433768402023-03-14T13:07:00.005-07:002024-01-10T13:39:32.408-08:00Doing visual inspection right: More than a dozen Kawasaki robots hit the production floor at this wheel manufacturer's site<h1 style="text-align: left;">Kawasaki Robots Present Wheel Rims for Visual Inspection<br /></h1><span style="font-size: x-small;">By Sandia Harrison, Director of Marketing, FPE Automation</span><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div><h2 style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Is your business leveraging automation to the fullest? At Automation International, the answer is yes. </span></span></h2><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXtdo1sJ4thspmK-KPge8UDu9C4nImtlTRLO0pO01BQz9vNcNCwOl1uE9kh3SKdzrrwhdKuczAavCCzKPLrvEkZ72tZF2B23Hn9yPgFgd5dVxf4787Q8D-AgQmNx9jvPc5LVz4KH5eI0SuqAFEViizP-6jzbsbLuonrNDhSzLLja_tinKT1uKRPgi/s4080/PXL_20230308_181710714.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4080" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXtdo1sJ4thspmK-KPge8UDu9C4nImtlTRLO0pO01BQz9vNcNCwOl1uE9kh3SKdzrrwhdKuczAavCCzKPLrvEkZ72tZF2B23Hn9yPgFgd5dVxf4787Q8D-AgQmNx9jvPc5LVz4KH5eI0SuqAFEViizP-6jzbsbLuonrNDhSzLLja_tinKT1uKRPgi/s320/PXL_20230308_181710714.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Danville, Illinois-based Automation International is using Kawasaki RS050 robots, together with PHD GRR grippers to present their products for visual inspection. The solution is considered by all parties to exemplify how automation can be used to manufacture smarter.</h3></span><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></p>I spoke to Tim Foley, Senior Engineer at <a href="https://automation-intl.com/" target="_blank">Automation International</a>. He explained that the material handling process was set up so that the wheel rim orientation could be detected. Once it is verified, the part continues on to further process. Tim told me it is "one small piece of a big automated line that we're putting together this year for testing and development. So far, we are very happy with the way things have turned out."<p></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></p>As a longtime <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki Robotics</a> partner, Tim Foley and <a href="https://automation-intl.com/" target="_blank">Automation International</a>'s considerable in-house expertise, along with teams at <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, <a href="https://www.phdinc.com/" target="_blank">PHD Inc</a>., and of course, <a href="https://kawasakirobotics.com/" target="_blank">Kawasaki</a>, all came together to create a solution that can be considered a benchmark for other companies. <a href="https://automation-intl.com/" target="_blank">Automation International's</a> Jeff Franklin’s creative contributions to this project were integral in the ongoing development of the system. The result is a testimony to the effectiveness of automation done well. </div><div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVN6HkutdnhQTMaHTPcK5LXJH-rsO81IHHmkS4o3ayiXQbDtey229y5CReIg2aUGGGnimAozRL76oVg2AcwSEYbDjOCIYPxwcTTeMw9BAS93nswZjlY-f3eTVz-nRtTsl6NkUB0NUKx4txC_SCeYE7lh1fM2t3CcCeO0gldlGFVVgp3q4ZXv5ieHM7/s4080/PXL_20230308_181345570.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4080" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVN6HkutdnhQTMaHTPcK5LXJH-rsO81IHHmkS4o3ayiXQbDtey229y5CReIg2aUGGGnimAozRL76oVg2AcwSEYbDjOCIYPxwcTTeMw9BAS93nswZjlY-f3eTVz-nRtTsl6NkUB0NUKx4txC_SCeYE7lh1fM2t3CcCeO0gldlGFVVgp3q4ZXv5ieHM7/s320/PXL_20230308_181345570.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The multi-robot solution was so well-received that <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation's</a> Steve Moore (pictured here, on the right) brought Joey Bardos (left), President of <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a>, in for a tour. </p><p class="MsoNormal">I asked Steve Moore to tell me what was going on in the photo. He explained, "<a href="https://automation-intl.com/" target="_blank">Automation International</a> is using these robots and
high capacity <a href="https://www.phdinc.com/product/?product=grippers&series=grr" target="_blank">GRR grippers</a> from <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD, Inc.</a> for pick and place/visual inspection of automotive wheels." Steve added, "What you do not see, are the additional RSO50 robots that will be used for welding the various components of the wheels together. There are 13 robots in total for this project."</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArcyu25ZdOvphzuWslBT45CYMNCke1F6DRTnupgx0V_Rf74GtKniF55Dopkukyak_vC0haaFk3d0sgUpXvVVG9bgT00B4AgZe6g9h-2WTiyzMN18uwTkTQsEoJzAXgPkSkTejpkUyD-pVwqx3yA7eAP5t3pSXbwBoQmnMBy0RFLe96x7YJobbybb1/s4080/PXL_20230308_181544322.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArcyu25ZdOvphzuWslBT45CYMNCke1F6DRTnupgx0V_Rf74GtKniF55Dopkukyak_vC0haaFk3d0sgUpXvVVG9bgT00B4AgZe6g9h-2WTiyzMN18uwTkTQsEoJzAXgPkSkTejpkUyD-pVwqx3yA7eAP5t3pSXbwBoQmnMBy0RFLe96x7YJobbybb1/s320/PXL_20230308_181544322.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><p></p><p>After the visit, I caught up with Joey Bardos on a Zoom meeting. He shared his reaction with me: "<a href="https://automation-intl.com/" target="_blank">Automation International</a> is a great partner. Very knowledgeable. I look forward to seeing this develop as the welding portion of the process comes on board. I'm really impressed with the teams at <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/kawasaki-robotics/" target="_blank">Kawasaki</a>, <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/phd-inc/" target="_blank">PHD</a> and <a href="https://automation-intl.com/" target="_blank">Automation International</a>, and what they have accomplished here. This is an excellent example of automation done right."</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>If you haven't had a conversation with the <a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> team about how to optimize your processes recently, we welcome you to reach out. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4117622435447297788.post-40754938140099738522023-03-09T10:07:00.004-08:002024-01-10T13:39:52.029-08:00Success Story: The solution had to be easy to use and simple to program for engineers with no prior robotics experience.<h1 style="text-align: left;">Epson Robots Features FPE Automation Implementation in a Case Study</h1><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-xUGZSulM2xBQ9Z86lfBpAN4hUDHv8P5WgcICNOlwIgHZ6rcVtDCGUb6iYhdPvoxx9VaTVBg6AnHLHej8Qj1wX1fZfDk_D6EwRJpf2uFUDFifWTn2-Vib4oNBozLHx19c720cESTjL_9YN_MjrZE18yP3PvljDDNnvxZQLwXDn2VditvEP0IrZvn/s1194/pdi.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="775" data-original-width="1194" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-xUGZSulM2xBQ9Z86lfBpAN4hUDHv8P5WgcICNOlwIgHZ6rcVtDCGUb6iYhdPvoxx9VaTVBg6AnHLHej8Qj1wX1fZfDk_D6EwRJpf2uFUDFifWTn2-Vib4oNBozLHx19c720cESTjL_9YN_MjrZE18yP3PvljDDNnvxZQLwXDn2VditvEP0IrZvn/s320/pdi.png" width="320" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">FPE Automation customer Plastic Designs, Inc. needed a fast and
cost-effective automation solution to help improve product quality and
reduce waste. The solution had to be easy
to use and simple to program for engineers
with no prior robotics experience.</h3><div><br /></div><div>The combination of the Epson T6-B All-in-One
SCARA robot and RC+® Express intuitive robot
teaching environment provided an easy-to-integrate automation solution that improved
product quality and reduced scrap while
increasing production capacity by 20 percent.</div><div><br /></div><div>Source: <a href="https://news.epson.com/case-studies/pdi-manufacturing-scara-robot-express" target="_blank">Epson</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cms.ipressroom.com/108/files/20231/202302030828/Epson+Industrial+Robots+and+PDI+Paxton+Case+Study_Final.pdf" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="3300" data-original-width="2550" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcX_ROi6uAnf1glHJ9XEdAFmIBx8MjW4zi_cPN3wWl88Q7UC_lIyqlNEt4j-0xTouQhLsAf_1rhzxUPNtfhF_Nm4AebIP5c-anHW7XfnfugkYRQCAFldGA0TePb-hS7RubI5UUvzxBYznrfm4dCGq14cPm9fgSoCia7kxLlJPQEvXWe8ZqGXBRhQrk/w154-h200/Epson+Industrial+Robots+and+PDI+Paxton+Case+Study_Final-1.png" width="154" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.fpeautomation.com/" target="_blank">FPE Automation</a> and Paxton, Illinois-based <a href="https://www.pdipaxton.com/" target="_blank">Plastic Designs, Inc. (PDI)</a> received global acclaim recently when both companies were featured as part of a February 2023 Epson case study. A robotic pick and place operation is challenging enough for most. What made this implementation particularly newsworthy was the customer specification that this would be "easy to use and simple to program for engineers with no prior robotics experience". That which some are unable to achieve, Epson and FPE Automation are making look easy. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
<a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cms.ipressroom.com/108/files/20231/202302030828/Epson+Industrial+Robots+and+PDI+Paxton+Case+Study_Final.pdf" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">
<img alt="PDF" height="18" src="https://fpesales.com/14009/images/icons/pdf.gif" width="14" /></a> <a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cms.ipressroom.com/108/files/20231/202302030828/Epson+Industrial+Robots+and+PDI+Paxton+Case+Study_Final.pdf" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Read the full case study in the Epson Newsroom</a><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandia Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05473697181746910426noreply@blogger.com0